Gingivitis

Healthy gums have a light pink colour and a smooth surface. A prolonged exposure to plague bacteria may lead to inflamed gums or gingivitis. The infectious disease affects up to 90% people with a poor dental hygiene, particularly smokers.

Risk factors

People with a poor dental hygiene or genetic predispositions are more prone to gingivitis. Gum inflammation is also promoted by cigarettes or through contact with other undesirable substances. In women, the risk factors are often hormonal changes due to pregnancy or puberty, but also a hormonal contraception which makes the gums more sensitive. Moreover, inflammation is caused by many drugs. Corticoids are well-known to induce gingivitis. A weak immune system has a major impact on inflammation, but it can be evoked by poor diet, especially if high on refined sugar, or an inadequate fluid intake. The risk groups are people with diabetes and the elderly.

Signs and symptoms

At first, inflammation manifests as red gums and their bleeding, particularly when brushing the teeth. Gingivitis is accompanied with unpleasant odour, and gums are tender and swollen.

Preventing gingivitis

The resistance of oral cavity is associated with the environment we create. If a regular dental hygiene is missing, bacteria multiply, and if the immune system is weak, inflammation develops. An adequate intake of vitamins and minerals is essential to prevent gingivitis, as well as a reasonable diet and regular fluid intake. Dental hygienists recommend using interdental brushes or dental floss that remove plague and limit the risk of gingivitis. Mouthwash also contributes to a good dental hygiene. 

Treatment

Untreated gingivitis may cause periodontitis and the loss of teeth. Gingivitis may greatly impact on health, so teeth and gums should be cared for. There are many tips for self-help and sore gums relief, however, teeth need appropriate cleanse and plague removal. This is best done by a hygienist or a dentist, who can get into areas usually inaccessible with a toothbrush. Swollen gums should be rinsed by salty water or mouthwash several times a day. Chamomile or sage infusions are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Other proven natural methods for gingivitis include cinnamon, mint and green tea. If inevitable, antibiotics or painkillers are administered, but a natural boost of the immune system is very important. 

Impact of the immune system on gingivitis

A strong immune system can combat hostile viruses and bacteria that in excess numbers cause inflammation. This is also true for gums, because their hygiene is as important for health as any other disease prevention. If good hygiene principles are not regularly met and the immune system is weak, the risk of gingivitis multiplies. Boosting the immunity using the natural food supplement is necessary for the overall prevention from inflammatory diseases.

Other informations

• Viral diseases
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Encephalitis
• Shingles
• Gingivitis
• Sinusitis
• Bronchitis
• Conjunctivitis
• Otitis media