Best treatments for gingivitis

Introduction

Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and causes the gums to become inflamed.1 If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that can lead to tooth loss.2

Gingivitis causes red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed easily during brushing or flossing.1 Other symptoms can include bad breath and receding gums.2 While gingivitis is reversible with proper treatment, it's important to address it early on to avoid more serious dental problems down the line.

Several factors can increase the risk of gingivitis. These include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications
• Diseases like diabetes.1,2

However, the good news is that gingivitis is preventable and treatable with the right combination of professional care and at-home practices.

In this article, we'll explore the best treatments for gingivitis, from in-office procedures to home remedies. We'll also cover good oral hygiene and how to prevent gum disease. .

Understanding Gum Health

Healthy gums are firm, pink, and snugly envelope the teeth. They don't bleed easily when brushing or flossing.2 But when plaque accumulates along the gum line, it can irritate the gums and cause gingivitis.

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It occurs when the gums become inflamed from the buildup of plaque and bacteria.1 If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This is a more severe form of gum disease that can cause permanent damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.2

As periodontitis progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where more bacteria can collect. This can lead to further inflammation, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.2 In fact, periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.9

Gum disease has other risks as well. Research has shown that people with gum disease are at higher risk for serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.12 The bacteria that cause gum inflammation can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation in other parts of the body.13

This is why preventing and treating gum disease is important for both oral and overall health.

Effective Gingivitis Treatments

When it comes to treating gingivitis, the goal is to reduce inflammation, remove plaque and tartar buildup. This can help prevent the condition from progressing to more advanced stages of gum disease. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with proper treatment and improved oral hygiene habits.4,5

Professional cleaning

One of the most effective treatments for gingivitis is a professional dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.4,5 During this procedure, a dental hygienist or dentist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This helps to reduce inflammation and allow the gum tissue to heal.

At-home treatments

In addition to professional cleanings, there are several at-home treatments that can help manage gingivitis and improve gum health. These include:

• Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Proper brushing technique involves holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and using gentle, circular motions to clean all surfaces of the teeth.8
• Flossing at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gum line. When flossing, it's important to use a clean section of floss for each tooth and to curve the floss around the base of each tooth in a C-shape.8
• Using an antimicrobial mouthwash to help control plaque and bacteria. Look for products that contain ingredients like chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, or essential oils.10
• Using an electric toothbrush or water flosser can make it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas and remove plaque more effectively than manual brushing alone.3

In addition to these mechanical treatments, there are also several natural remedies that may help reduce inflammation and promote gum healing. These include:

• Rinsing with warm salt water. This can help soothe irritated gums and reduce bacteria in the mouth.6
• Applying a gel or paste made from turmeric, a spice with anti-inflammatory properties.7
• Drinking green tea or using a green tea mouthwash, which may help inhibit the growth of plaque bacteria.7

It's important to note that while these natural remedies may provide some benefits, they should not replace traditional treatments like brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.

Treating severe gingivitis

In more severe cases of gingivitis, other therapies may be necessary to control the infection and prevent further damage to the gums and teeth. These may include:

• Antibiotics, either in the form of a mouthwash or oral medication, to help control bacterial growth.4,5
• Surgical treatments like gum grafts to repair and regenerate damaged gum tissue.4,5
• Laser therapy, which can be used to remove infected gum tissue and promote healing with less pain and swelling than traditional surgery.4

Maintaining Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing and managing gingivitis, as well as promoting overall oral health. This involves a combination of daily at-home practices and regular professional care.24,25

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.24,25 Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled brush can actually damage the gums and lead to recession.26
• Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gum line.24,25
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help control plaque and bacteria in the mouth, especially in hard-to-reach areas.24,25
• See a dentist or dental hygienist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups.24,25 How often you need to see a dentist for cleanings may vary depending on your individual risk factors and oral health status. In general, the American Dental Association recommends that most people visit the dentist every six months.17,18 However, if you have a history of gum disease or other oral health problems, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
• Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and calcium, can help support healthy gums and teeth.24,25 Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can erode tooth enamel and contribute to decay.17,18
• Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and can make treatment less effective.19,20
• Managing stress through techniques like exercise, meditation, and good sleep hygiene can help support overall health and reduce the risk of oral health problems.

Finally, it's important to be aware of any changes in your oral health and to seek prompt treatment if you notice signs of gum disease or other problems. Symptoms like red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose or shifting teeth should not be ignored.24,25

Remember, your oral health is closely linked to your overall health and well-being. Taking care of your gums now can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come, and may even reduce your risk of developing other chronic health conditions.

Conclusion

Gingivitis may be a common condition, but it's important to take it seriously and address it promptly to avoid more serious complications down the line. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and other health problems.4,5

The good news is that gingivitis is highly treatable and even reversible with proper treatment and improved oral hygiene habits. In fact, many cases of gingivitis can be successfully managed at home with the right combination of brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial products.4,5

One of the most important steps in treating gingivitis is to remove the plaque and tartar buildup that's causing the inflammation. This is typically done through a professional dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.4,5 In addition to professional cleanings, there are many things you can do at home to treat and prevent gingivitis.

Citations:

<1>Holm-Pederson P., Muller F., Lang, N. Pathology and Treatment of Gingivitis in the Aging Individual. Textbook of Geriatric Dentistry. 2015.</1>

<2>Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. Available at https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2020/20_0266.htm. August 2020; Accessed: Oct 14 2020.</2>

<3>Sutor, S., Graetz, C., Geiken, A., Straßburger, M., Löwe, C., Holtmann, B., Conrad, J., Sälzer, S., & Dörfer, C. E. (2022). Effect of a powered and a manual toothbrush in subjects susceptible to gingival recession: A 36-month randomized controlled clinical study. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 49(5), 475-484. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.13573</3>

<4>Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Gingivitis - Diagnosis and treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gingivitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354459</4>

<5>Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Gingivitis: Symptoms & How To Treat It. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10950-gingivitis-and-periodontal-disease-gum-disease</5>

<6>Healthline. (2022, June 28). 10 Gingivitis Home Remedies: What Works? https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/gingivitis-home-remedy</6>

<7>Parodontax. (n.d.). How to Treat Gingivitis Using Home Remedies. https://www.parodontax.com/gum-health/all-about-gingivitis/how-to-treat-gingivitis/</7>

<8>Kalamazoo Smiles. (n.d.). What's the Fastest Way to Cure Gingivitis? | Kalamazoo MI Dentist. https://www.kalamazoosmiles.com/whats-the-fastest-way-to-cure-gingivitis/</8>

<9>Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Gingivitis - Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gingivitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354453</9>

<10>Crest. (n.d.). Gingivitis Treatment: How to Treat Gingivitis at Home. https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/gingivitis-home-treatment</10>

<11>LISTERINE®. (n.d.). How to Treat Gingivitis (Early-Stage Gum Disease) | LISTERINE®. https://www.listerine.com/gum-disease-healthy-gums/prevent-treat-gingivitis</11>

<12>WebMD. (n.d.). Here's how to treat gum disease and how to know if you have gum disease. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/gum-disease-treatments</12>

<13>Proper and consistent oral hygiene can prevent gum disease. This includes: ... Eating a balanced diet is also important to achieving and maintaining dental health. ... National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research report that periodontal disease is associated with an increased risk for:</13>

<14>There are several risk factors for gum disease, but smoking is the most significant. Smoking also can make treatment for gum disease less successful. Other risk factors include hormonal changes in girls and women; certain illnesses, such as diabetes or AIDS and their medications; and genetics. Back to top</14>

<15>National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (n.d.). Periodontal (Gum) Disease. Retrieved from https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease</15>

<16>Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Gum disease. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/gum-disease</16>

<17>American Academy of Periodontology. (n.d.). Gum Disease Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.perio.org/for-patients/gum-disease-information/gum-disease-prevention/</17>

<18>Contemporary Family Dental. (n.d.). 5 Ways to Prevent Gum Disease | Gum Disease Dentists. Retrieved from https://www.contemporaryfamilydental.com/5-ways-to-prevent-gum-disease/</18>

<19>WebMD. (n.d.). Periodontitis (Gum Disease): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/gingivitis-periodontal-disease</19>

<20>LISTERINE®. (n.d.). How to Treat Gingivitis (Early-Stage Gum Disease) | LISTERINE®. Retrieved from https://www.listerine.com/gum-disease-healthy-gums/prevent-treat-gingivitis</20>

<21>Bansal, P. V., Kulkarni, C., Obulareddy, V. T., Penumaka, S. L., & Kulkarni, K. (2022). Effect of coconut and sesame oils on gingivitis. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 26(1), 172-177.</21>

<22>Xanthopoulou, V., Räisänen, I. T., Sorsa, T., Tortopidis, D., & Sakellari, D. (2022). Diagnostic value of aMMP-8 and azurocidin in peri-implant sulcular fluid as biomarkers of peri-implant health or disease. Clinical Oral Investigations, 26(3), 2677-2688.</22>

<23>It is mentioned in the Ayurvedic text Charaka Samhita where it is called Kavala or Gandusha, and is claimed to cure about 30 systemic diseases ranging from headache, migraine to diabetes and asthma. Oil pulling has been used extensively as a traditional Indian folk remedy for many years to prevent decay, oral malodor, bleeding gums, dryness of throat, cracked lips and for strengthening teeth, gums and the jaw.[16,17] Oil pulling therapy can be done using oils like sunflower oil or sesame oil. The sesame plant (Sesamum indicum) of the Pedaliaceae family has been considered a gift of nature to mankind for its nutritional qualities and desirable health effects.</23>

<24>Healthline. (2023). 10 Gingivitis Home Remedies: What Works?</24>

<25>University Health News. (2023). How to Diagnose and Treat Gingivitis at Home.</25>

<26>Colgate. (2023). 3 Tooth Brushing Techniques That Get The Job Done. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/3-tooth-brushing-techniques-that-get-the-job-done</26>

<27>NIH News in Health. (2016). Don't Toss the Floss!. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2016/11/dont-toss-floss</27>