The Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis
If you’ve been taking an interest in your oral health, you’ve likely heard of both gingivitis and periodontitis, and you may know that they are very closely related. But, you may not know the exact difference.
If you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis, you are lucky. This means your problem is in the very early stages, and it’s still easy to treat without worrying about having severe dental problems. With gingivitis, you may experience chronic bad breath and bleeding gums. With some diligent oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings, you can usually stop gingivitis before it becomes a more serious problem. Brush at least twice a day, and floss at least once, before brushing. In addition, rinse a few times a day with an anti-bacterial mouthwash.
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontitis, however, you have a more serious problem. Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. Your bleeding gums may now be sore and they may have started to recede. If you don’t take care of the problem now, it will lead to tooth pain and tooth loss and could possibly even lead to a heart attack. So, if your dentist has diagnosed you with periodontitis, it is important that you take action.
Work with your dentist or periodontist on a treatment plan for your periodontitis, but don’t neglect your routine at home, either. Brushing, flossing and rinsing are some of the most powerful tools you have in keeping a healthy mouth.
Choosing all natural products, like those made primarily from oil of mint are also helpful. Natural products help you avoid side effects that sometimes come from the artificial ingredients in commercial products. In addition, you can’t find a better anti-bacterial or anti-fungal for your mouth than oil of mint. So, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by swapping out your commercial products for all natural, mint based ones.
Working closely with your healthcare professional is critical if you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis. Either diagnosis will require that you are diligent in your oral care routine at home and that you don’t neglect your dental visits. But, you can beat either problem with the right combination of professional help and work at home.
And, don’t forget to add all natural dental care products made from oil of mint to your dental hygiene routine. You’d likely be surprised to learn how your oral hygiene affects gingivitis. In using proper hygiene, your mouth will feel and taste fresh and you can feel good about removing all those unnatural ingredients from your dental care routine.