A smile is the best makeup any girl can wear, or should we say ANYONE can wear says Marilyn Monroe, but have you ever wondered why some people would lose confidence in showing their smiles? Or why some people lose a few of their teeth? There are many factors to consider and one of those will be tackled in this article. – Gingivitis.

Introduction to Gingivitis

Let us first get to know more about gingivitis and its causes. According to Mayo Clinic, it is a common and mild form of gum disease that may cause irritation, redness, and swelling. With that said, gingivitis, when not treated and taken into serious consideration, can lead to much more serious gum disease and worst, tooth loss. You don’t want that to happen.

Symptoms and when to see a dentist

Ideally, healthy gums should look firm and pale pink, where your teeth fit perfectly (your teeth shouldn’t look wobbly like it’s about to fall off). Now, check your teeth. Can you see swollen and puffy gums? How about bloody red-looking gums? When you floss, do your gums easily bleed? Do you notice bad breath, tender gums, or receding gums? If YES then you better be alarmed! These are signs of gingivitis. It’s best to seek your dentist’s help to alleviate these symptoms.

Risk factors and causes of gingivitis

Poor oral hygiene can cause inflammation to your teeth and gums because of plaque build-up. Plaques are a result of food particles, such as starches and sugar, that interact with bacteria then start to form in the surroundings of your teeth. Plaques then turn into tartar which hardens under the gum line, creates a protective shield for bacteria, and causes irritation. See, the longer these plaques stay on your teeth, the more it’ll irritate your gingiva. In time, swelling and tooth decay will start and a more serious oral health issue may come up.

How can you lessen your risks or eliminate gingivitis?

It all boils down to your oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes and flossing at least once a day can help prevent the accumulation of food particles and bacteria in your gum line. You should also see your dentist twice a year for routine cleaning and checkups. Depending on your activities, your dentist might advise you to visit them more often than usual. Finally, your food intake matters the most. Your food choices and your diet can definitely help lessen your risk of gingivitis. So, the next time you check your mouth, don’t forget to check your gum line too! It may save you the pain and money in the future!