What are the Best Tips for Reversing Gum Disease?

Reversing gum disease can sometimes be as simple as having good oral hygiene by properly tooth brushing and flossing. This usually includes using a mouthwash, soft-bristled brush, and tooth brushing for at least two minutes after every meal and snack. For more serious or advanced diseases, a dentist may have to deep clean the mouth or prescribe antibiotics to help rid the mouth of bacteria. A deep cleaning can require up to half a dozen visits to the dentist and is sometimes combined with the use of antibiotics. In all cases, successfully reversing gum disease and preventing it from returning is usually best accomplished with the help and advice of a dentist.

Gingivitis is a common gum disease caused by the buildup of bacterial that forms plaque. If the plaque is not removed within about three days, it turns into tartar and usually cannot be removed without a professional cleaning by a dentist. It is called gingivitis when the plaque and tartar buildup irritate the gums so much that they begin to swell and bleed. In this case, reversing gum disease can mean simply having better oral hygiene habits. Seeing a dentist for a routine cleaning can help significantly, but it is not impossible to get rid of gingivitis by properly and frequently brushing, flossing, and mouth-washing at home.

A deep cleaning is similar but not the same as a regular cleaning, both of which are performed by a dentist. Deep cleanings are more thorough, especially around the gum line, but often involve some of the same techniques. Sometimes reversing gum disease requires at least one deep cleaning, though advanced diseases can require many deep cleanings to completely get rid of the disease. If a person suspects that he has a gum disease, it is best to get treatment right away rather than waiting for the disease to progress and cost more time and money. When reversing gum disease, it is also important to follow the recommendations of the dentist on how to better prevent the gum disease in the first place.

Sometimes antibiotics are prescribed to the dental patient in combination with other treatments to help get rid of the bacteria. Certain medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, may be able to increase the effectiveness of the antibiotics. Before taking additional medication, however, it is generally recommended to confirm this with the dentist to ensure that this is true with the medication prescribed.