How Long Does It Take for Gingivitis to Heal?

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease. Ultimately, it means that the gums are inflamed. Usually, this occurs as a result of a film of plaque and bacteria along the gumline. This issue is much more common than you may think. In fact, approximately half of American adults over the age of 30 are suffering from gum disease at one extent or another. The good news is that gingivitis is completely reversible and can be done at home with excellent oral hygiene and a little help from your dentist. Continue reading to learn some tips as well as how long it will take to eliminate gingivitis.

How Long Does It Take to Reverse Gingivitis?

Fortunately, if you address your gingivitis quickly and effectively, you can reverse it and prevent periodontitis. This is a serious form of gum disease that requires invasive dental treatments and can even lead to jawbone loss and tooth loss. The process of eliminating gingivitis usually only takes about two weeks.

How Can You Treat Gingivitis?

Here are some tips to help you eliminate gingivitis:

• Use Correct Brushing Technique: When you are brushing your teeth, be sure that you are holding your toothbrush at a 45- degree angle. Apply gentle pressure as you brush all surfaces of the teeth. Make sure you are paying special attention to hard-to-reach areas so that you don’t miss anything. You should be brushing twice a day.
• Floss Every Day: Flossing is essential in order to fight back against gum disease. Even if you are excellent at brushing, there are still areas of your mouth that your toothbrush can’t quite reach. You will need to use dental floss in order to remove plaque buildups and bacteria from between the teeth and beneath the gumline.
• Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Mouthwash is another great step to add to your oral hygiene routine. It helps to wash away leftover bacteria that your toothbrush and dental floss missed.
• Stop Smoking: Did you know that smoking doubles your risk of developing gum disease. It is also linked to other oral health issues, like oral cancer and dry mouth. Ultimately, by dropping the cigarettes, you are giving your gums a better chance to heal.
• See Your Dentist: As great of a brusher and flosser as you are, there are going to be some areas that you miss. By seeing your dentist for regular cleanings, they will be able to clear away any plaque buildups from the gumline and give you pointers on places you need to focus on. If your gum disease is more severe, they may recommend gum disease therapy.

Gingivitis is common but easy to reverse. By using the tips listed above, your gums will be healthy again in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Yaritza Vazquez is an experienced periodontist who has been working in the field for well over a decade. She completed her residency in Periodontics at Boston University and her Master’s Degree in oral biology, which was focused on inflammatory processes. Currently, she is a proud member of The American Academy of Periodontology, American Dental Association, and Texas Dental Association. If you’re struggling with gingivitis, she would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment at her office in Richardson, visit her website or call (972) 479-1200.