How to Treat Gingivitis With Improved Oral Hygiene

Gingivitis affects almost 90 percent of all Americans at some time or another during their lives. It strikes most often during puberty, when hormonal changes lead to conditions which create the disease, but poor brushing habits and negligence of things like flossing can lead to gingivitis as well. The best way to treat the disease is simply to practice improved oral hygiene, with an eye on maintaining healthy gums.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Mouthwash
• Baking soda
• Calcium
• Vitamin C
• Raw vegetables

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Instructions

• 1

  Brush your teeth regularly. It sounds obvious, but the simple act of brushing--twice a day at least and preferably after each meal--is the best way to treat gingivitis. Focus on the edge of the gum line when you brush and use gentle strokes with soft bristles to remove plaque and other food buildup.

• 2

  Floss after each brushing. Dental floss removes food particles from places where a toothbrush can't reach and is an absolutely essential to promote improved oral hygiene. It should be a regular part of your routine, used as often as you brush.

• 3

  Rinse with strong mouthwash at the end of each brushing. It will kill germs and fight back the bacteria that causes gingivitis, as well as make your breath smell great. It's no coincidence that bad breath is one of the symptoms of gingivitis. Look for mouthwashes such as Listerine, which contain strong anti-bacterial elements, not just those that improve your breath (see Resources below).

• 4

  Massage your gums with your fingers. Place your thumb on the gums behind your teeth and your forefinger on the visible gums above your teeth, and then rub the gums gently. This promotes blood flow to the gums, which will improve their ability to fight back disease.

• 5

  Brush your teeth with a little baking soda. Baking soda improves oral hygiene by killing bacteria in your mouth, and its mild abrasive quality polishes your teeth. You can rub a little along the edge of the gum line and then brush as normal.

• 6

  Take plenty of calcium and vitamin C. Calcium helps strength bones (including teeth), while vitamin C improves the health of your gums. Milk and fruit juice are simple ways to gain these vitamins, though you can take them in pill form as well.

• 7

  Eat at least one raw vegetable a day. Carrots and celery promote improved overall health and also help to clean your teeth and remove buildup from your gums.