Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and replace it every 2-3 months. It is possible that electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and tartar, so you could consider using one instead of a regular toothbrush. [4] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Don’t go to bed without brushing your teeth. Particles from the food you ate during the day are sure to stick to your teeth, and letting plaque form on your teeth and sit there overnight will irritate your gums even more. [5] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Brushing before going to bed is the most important activity that keeps your teeth healthy and reduces bacteria in your mouth.
Don’t let irritation, pain or bleeding stop you from brushing your teeth. Neglecting them will only make things worse. If you brush using the proper technique at least twice a day, the gingivitis should start clearing up in a week or so.
Your gums may bleed excessively if it has been awhile since you’ve flossed. Keep flossing every day, and within a week or two they will heal and stop bleeding every time.
Gargling the mouthwash can help clear bacteria out of the back of your mouth and throat.
Carry a water bottle with you during the day and refill it often to make sure you’re getting enough water. Replace sugary drinks, coffee, tea, and alcohol with water as often as possible. The drinking water in most cities and townships in the U. S. is fluoridated, which helps strengthen tooth enamel. Avoid drinking bottled water to ensure you are getting plenty of fluoride. However, you should check with the local authorities and see exactly how much fluoride is in the water. Too much fluoride can be toxic and can even cause cancer.
Oral irrigators flood the mouth with a jet of water under pressure to flush offending food particles and bacteria from the mouth. They can remove any debris leftover after brushing. They also give you a good gum massage, which improves blood circulation and prevents inflammation. Oral irrigators, such as Oral Breeze or WaterPik can now be found that attach to your shower-head or your bathroom sink faucet and are very easy to use. Oral irrigators should never be used as a replacement for flossing.
When you do eat or drink sugar, follow it with a glass of water. Swish the water around in your mouth before swallowing to clean off the sugar.
Be aware that brushing your teeth immediately after meals can potentially help to erode the natural enamel on your teeth, so make sure you only do this after eating meals that will contribute to bacteria buildup.
Citrus juices and fruits Alcohol with a high phosphorus content Certain types of meats, like corned beef or turkey Some cheeses, like parmesan, are also high in acid content
In some cases, a dental fitting in your mouth, such as a cap or a permanent retainer, may be preventing you from cleaning your teeth and gums effectively. Talk to your dentist about tools you can use to clean your mouth and prevent gingivitis.
Other tobacco products like dip and chew are equally harmful to your gums. Quit chewing tobacco as soon as possible to cure gingivitis and other mouth ailments. [15] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source When you do smoke or chew, brush your teeth immediately afterward to help prevent gingivitis from coming back.
