What are the Best Ways to Avoid Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a type of inflammation that affects what is known as the gingiva. That’s the section of the gums found around the base of your teeth. When this condition develops, you will likely see swelling and discoloration. You’ll also notice that the gums seem to be sensitive and easily irritated. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent this condition from developing. Here are a few examples.

Start With Brushing After Meals

Do you ever skip brushing after meals? If so, you are increasing the risk of developing quite a few dental issues. They happen to include gingivitis. Since the bacteria left on the gums and teeth provide the perfect setting for inflammation to develop, it makes sense to brush and remove one of the major root causes. Always brush at least twice a day. If possible, brush after every meal. In the long run, your family dentist will have an easier time of keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Flossing Helps Too

Brushing is a great first line of defense, but you can do something else that further decreases your risk of gingivitis. Flossing several times a week is something many family dentists in Mississauga recommend. When done properly, flossing removes buildup that is often left after brushing. When you remove more plaque and other buildup, you further reduce the risk of irritation to the gums.

Pay More Attention to Your Diet

The foods you consume have a lot to do with your general health. Did you know that a balanced diet is also good for your teeth and gums? Consuming foods with the proper nutrients for dental health makes it easier for the body’s immune system to resist the development of gingivitis. Your dental professional can provide suggestions of what to include in your diet and improve the odds of enjoying excellent teeth and gums.

Dump the Tobacco Products

You already have plenty of good reasons to stop smoking or using tobacco in any form. If you need one more, think about how continuing to smoke, chew, or dip leaves more residue on the teeth and gums. That residue increases the chances for developing gingivitis. Any expert in family dentistry will tell you that breaking the tobacco habit will go a long way toward achieving and maintaining a higher level of dental health.

Never Skip a Dental Checkup

Your schedule may be busy, but that’s no reason to postpone a dental checkup. Do whatever it takes to have an annual exam at a family dental clinic, and find out how well your teeth and gums are doing. If there’s the need for more frequent exams, make sure they are on the schedule and that you keep them without fail. If there is some small issue developing that could lead to gingivitis or some other condition, the dental team can provide treatments that stop the issue before it can get out of hand.

The bottom line is that the best way to avoid gingivitis is to combine responsible dental hygiene with regular checkups by a dental professional. If it’s been some time since you had a checkup, call today and schedule one. Doing so will be the first step on the path to better dental health.