Gingivitis is a common gum disease caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar. It causes swelling, aching and bleeding of the gums. Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing gum disease. To treat gingivitis, one should schedule a professional dental cleaning to remove built up grime, brush teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash at a different time than brushing. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices can lead to healthier gums.

2. Gingivitis
The swelling, aching, and bleeding in your
gums does have a name. It may sound
terrible, but gingivitis is common in adults,
and easily treatable. Follow these few simple
guidelines and your gums will be healthy in no
time!

3. Stop Smoking
If you’re a smoker, you must hear this
all the time, but smoking is not only
bad for your lungs, but for your teeth
as well. According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), 47.2% of adults over 30 have
some form of gum disease, while
64.2% of smokers have gum disease.
Gum disease becomes increasingly
more common as we age, so
continuing to smoke becomes
exponentially more harmful to your
teeth every day you continue the
habit.

4. Schedule a Cleaning at the Dental
Office
Gingivitis is caused by a build-up of plaque and
tartar on the teeth. A proper dental cleaning
should be your first step towards tackling
gingivitis. Here at Serenity Dental, we can scrub
the built-up grime off of your teeth for a whiter
smile, fresher breath, and a healthier mouth. We
can also provide you with personalized assistance
and brushing tips to help you continue to fight
gum disease at home.

5. Maintain Oral Hygiene
• You will need to step up your oral hygiene if
your gums are suffering. According to the
United Kingdom’s National Health Service, you
should brush your teeth at least twice a day,
floss at least once a day, and help maintain a
clean mouth between brushings with
mouthwash.
•

6. Brush Properly
You should always brush your teeth right
before going to bed, and at least one other
time during the day. If you brush for about
two minutes, then you should manage to
brush all surfaces of the teeth.

7. Floss
You should floss at least once a day. Use about
12-18 inches of dental floss. Fit the floss
completely down to the gum line and move it
up and down about least eight to ten times in
each crevice to thoroughly clean the teeth.
Flossing is underrated. It’s awesome for your
oral health.

8. Mouthwash
Contrary to popular belief, mouthwash
shouldn’t be used directly after brushing..
Mouthwash should be used at another time
during the day, like after lunch. Wait at least
30 minutes after using mouthwash to eat or
drink.

9. Talk to your dentist!
• SerenityDental.net
• (916) 630-1084