You can heal gingivitis quickly, but it needs your daily attention. If you ignore
it, this common form of gum disease
can progress to periodontitis.
How to Reverse Gingivitis
Fortunately, if you give your gums prompt and effective treatment, you can reverse gingivitis and avoid
periodontitis within about two weeks. Periodontitis is a serious
form of gum disease that requires expensive dental care and could lead to tooth loss.
Reversing gum disease starts with understanding the problem. Even if you brush, bacteria can build up
along the gumline and between teeth. Your body treats this as a threat and responds by triggering an
inflammatory response to fight against infection. The result is red, swollen, and tender gums that bleed
when you brush—the classic sign that you need to step up your oral health routine, and fast.
Heal Gingivitis at Home
If you haven’t already, seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning and exam is a good idea. But
that’s just the beginning. Healing gum disease requires ongoing care:
Floss Every Day. Flossing is even more critical to fighting gum disease than
brushing, but you must floss properly to get the best result. Many people find using a Water Flosser
easier and more effective, and it can reach places string floss can’t.
Choose the Right Toothbrush. Whether you prefer a manual, electric oscillating, or
sonic toothbrush, choose one with a small head and soft, end-rounded bristles.
Brush at Least Twice Daily. Brush your teeth in the morning, after meals, and at
bedtime.
Tune Up Your Brushing Technique. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and
apply gentle pressure as you brush all surfaces of your teeth. Pay special attention to
hard-to-reach areas, such as dental crowns, tight angles, or crowded teeth. Two minutes is a
guideline, but you should brush until teeth feel and look clean. Click here for more on how to
brush.
Commit to Oral Health. Gingivitis can return quickly. Make proper brushing and
flossing a priority to keep gum disease away for life.