How to Treat Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is when the gums around your teeth get swollen and tender. It’s usually because plaque (that sticky gunk) sits there too long. If you catch it early, it’s reversible. Ignore it? It can turn into something harder to fix.
Step-by-Step: Treating Gingivitis
1) Get a Real Cleaning – Yeah, this part matters. A dentist or hygienist will do a deep scrub it’s called scaling and root planing and get rid of hardened plaque you can’t reach at home. This alone can make your gums lighter, less swollen, and not angry after just one visit.
2) Brush Like You Mean It
Quick tip:
- Use a soft brush. Not hard.
- Angle it toward the gumline.
- Brush in little circles.
- Twice a day.
- Two minutes each time.
3) Floss Every Single Day
Sounds obvious. But so many people don’t actually do it. Floss gets the stuff between teeth that a brush just can’t reach. You’ll see the difference in bleeding and puffiness within a few days.
4) Rinse With Something That Helps
Saltwater rinse warm salt water calms the sore bits. Antibacterial mouthwash helps fight bacteria your brush missed. Do this after brushing & flossing if you want that fresh feeling and real help, not just perfume-mouth.
When It Starts to Feel Better And When It Doesn’t
Your gums might get less puffy in a week or two if you’re serious about brushing, flossing, and rinsing well. That’s your “aha” moment.
But if you’re doing all that and it’s still bad after a few weeks? See your dentist again. Something else might be going on.
FAQ’s
Q: Can gingivitis go away on its own?
A: Not really if you ignore home care and dental cleaning.
Q: How long till gums stop bleeding?
A: Usually a couple of weeks with consistent care.
Q: Should I use salt water every day?
A: Yeah especially when your gums feel sore. Just don’t overdo it.