6 tips to reduce inflammation of the gums

The inflamed gum It is one that presents an abnormal thickness, a different coloration and a slightly unpleasant appearance.

Inflammation of the gums is known as gingivitis, and it is a type of periodontal disease whose origin may be in poor oral hygiene that produces a thin layer of bacteria that leads to dental plaque, a nutritional deficit or the consumption of aggressive foods such as spicy, excess seasonings, citrus, astringents, etc.

In addition, it can also be due to factors such as hormonal changes, in women during pregnancy, tobacco use, orthodontics and side effects of some medications, such as immunosuppressants, anticonvulsants or calcium blockers that are used to control fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure.

When gingivitis or inflammation of the gums is not treated in time, periodontitis can arise, damage the bone that supports the teeth and even the jaw, and affect the heart, due to a bacterial endocarditis, or alter the immune system.

That is why the importance of going to the dentist to avoid the worsening of gingivitis and its consequences.

Tips to help you reduce inflammation of the gums

1. Correct and timely brushing: This is golden advice that should be followed to the letter, as the accumulation of food residues, especially sugar and flour, contributes to inflammation of the gums.
2. Brushing after every meal and eating a dessert, sweet, cake, ice cream, etc., is essential to reduce inflammation of the gums. It should be a gentle brushing and avoid brushing the affected areas with force so that there is no bleeding.
3. Rinse the mouth with warm salt water, because salt has antibacterial action that helps reduce inflammation of the gums and eliminate bacteria that contaminate the mouth; or use a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine, an antiseptic recommended for these cases.
4. Flossing to minimize plaque on teeth and prevent tartar formation. This should be done gently to avoid breaking the gums and aggravating the condition.
5. Go to the dentist before gingivitis worsens and periodontitis appears, a more difficult process to attack since more components of the mouth are already compromised.
6. The use of aloe vera or aloe is also recommended To reduce inflammation of the gums, gently rubbing a piece of the gel on the inflamed gums, as this plant has anti-inflammatory and healing properties. You can also use baking soda, making a paste of bicarbonate with a little water and rubbing it on the gums.

We recommend that you also read these tips to relieve toothache.

Other tips to keep your gums healthy

• Try not to consume sugary foods and drinks and maintain a balanced diet, with more vegetables and fruits.
• Choose a suitable toothpaste and brush, which are used for swollen gums or to prevent gingivitis. Maintaining proper oral hygiene will help keep this disease at bay.
• Include the gums and tongue in your brushing as part of oral cleaning to prevent the residues that accumulate there from spreading throughout the mouth.
• Avoid the consumption of tobacco and alcohol that can cause irritation and inflammation of the gums, in addition to contributing to bad breath.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as the water will help remove food accumulations, the growth of bacteria, and the formation of dental plaque or tartar.
• Go to the dentist at least once a year to have better control and the most appropriate indications for your oral reality, lifestyle, diet and hygiene habits.