What’s gingivitis and how do we prevent it?

Gingivitis and periodontal disease are oral health conditions that affect the gums and surrounding tissues of the teeth. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation and swelling of the gums. Chances are, every single one of us has suffered with gingivitis at some point.

It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums.

Gingivitis can lead to more severe forms of gum disease if left untreated. Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. It occurs when gingivitis is left untreated and the infection spreads below the gumline, causing pockets to form around the teeth.

Over time, the pockets can become larger and the bone around the teeth can be damaged, eventually leading to tooth loss. To prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene.

Using floss as standard in your dental routine is a must. If you gums are bleeding this is the onset of gingivitis, more flossing, not less is needed. Interdental brushes are also your friend. My hygienist recommends using floss in the morning then interdentals in the evening to keep on top of any gum issues you may have.

Periodontal disease will cause bacteria to break down the tissues and bone supporting the teeth so interdentals are needed to get in these pockets that floss cannot – without daily flossing and interdental use periodontal disease will be left to do it’s damage and sadly, this invariably ends in tooth loss.

A dental routine that incorporates gum loving products such as our vegan dental floss and bamboo interdentals, alongside our Brightening Antioxidant Toothpaste and toothbrushes will enable you to get on top of gingivitis and periodontal disease as well as allowing you less visits to the dentist for invasive expensive treatement.

Prevention is always better than a cure.