How long does it take to treat gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a condition that can occur within the smile and can lead to a more serious infection known as periodontal disease. Dr. Heather F. Fleschler of Houston, TX encourages patients to not only avoid the condition but treat it effectively if it develops.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the beginning stage of an infection called periodontitis. Gingivitis can be reversed if patients take the time to get a proper diagnosis and follow their dentist’s instructions on caring for the smile. It can cause:

Persistent bad breath
Red, swollen gums
Bleeding when brushing and flossing

When this condition develops, patients should care for their smile appropriately to keep the condition from progressing into more serious stages which can cause unwanted and permanent damage to the smile. Below are a few recommendations for addressing gingivitis and getting it under control in a relatively short period of time:

Saltwater rinses – a salt water rinse performed two or three times a day can be extremely beneficial in healing gum tissues that may be inflamed by gingivitis. It can also help in reducing bacteria, removing food particles stuck between teeth, and relieve bad breath. Add ½ to ¾ teaspoon of table salt to a small glass of lukewarm water and mix. Swish the water in the mouth for 30 seconds, spit, and brush the teeth.
Mouthwash use – another way to combat gingivitis is to use an advanced mouthwash that is available over-the-counter to help remove bacteria that may be present in the mouth. Our team may also recommend and prescribe a special mouthwash designed to treat the early stages of periodontal disease.
Thorough cleaning – sometimes, a thorough cleaning at the dentist can give patients a head start on treating their gingivitis. This is done in our office and can help patients see remarkable improvement in a short period of time.