It is more common than we realize, inflamed gums. Sometimes serious and sometimes limited, but it can have far-reaching consequences. However, good care, which can largely prevent inflamed gums, is not very intensive. Consistent application is a must.

Healthy versus inflamed gums

Healthy gums fit tightly around the teeth and molars in a nice, calm pink color. Naturally, the gums do not bleed. However, the gums that are inflamed to a greater or lesser extent look a bit redder, are sometimes even a bit swollen and can therefore bleed. The inflammation can be very local next to teeth or the entire gums are inflamed.If the gums are inflamed, it does not necessarily have to be very painful, unless you run your fingers or tongue along them. But also if you go over it with dental floss or toothpicks. Your breath almost always smells worse and you often get a bad taste in your mouth.

To arise

Provided that one person has inflamed gums earlier than the other, the cause is usually the build-up of plaque between teeth and molars. If the plaque is not removed, it will slowly harden and calcify into tartar. Once tartar is present, new plaque adheres much more easily, creating an increasingly thick layer that can lead to inflamed gums.

Dissolve

Once plaque has become tartar, you basically cannot remove it yourself. The dentist/dental hygienist must do this. To get inflamed gums healthy again, it is a matter of having tartar removed and then keeping the mouth free of plaque. This goes beyond just brushing your teeth twice a day.If you do not have the tartar removed by the dentist/dental hygienist, your teeth can eventually become loose and fall out.

Prevent

Despite careful cleaning, keeping dental plaque free is not always possible, so it is important to visit the dentist/dental hygienist regularly. This can remove what you were unable to stop yourself. Although it sounds strange, the dentist/dental hygienist may also be able to help you learn how to brush properly. One in four to five people actually brushes incorrectly.Good oral hygiene can go a long way, namely:

• Brush your teeth and gums thoroughly after a meal. Electric brushing has been shown to be better and this for at least 2 minutes each time. Conclude the brushing by also brushing the tongue. There are many bacteria there, which you can remove with a toothbrush without much effort.
• Floss (possibly with fluoride) between the teeth at least once a day. Not everyone likes flossing (some dentists are not in favor of it either) and replace it with toothpicks and/or toothbrushes.
• Some mouthwashes make it easier to remove plaque (it is not removed by the product, so always use it in combination).

It is important that there is nothing between the teeth and molars. If necessary, rinse with a special rinse to remove plaque more easily and for a fresh taste in the mouth. Brushing is to remove the plaque and prevent calcification of the plaque. Moreover, clean teeth look a lot more attractive.

Do you have any plaque?

If you are unsure whether you have plaque, which almost everyone does to a greater or lesser extent, take a tablet, which is a tell-tale sign. This chewable tablet makes plaque visible (with dye).

Finally

All in all, preventing, or largely preventing, gum problems is not such a huge task. At least, as long as you apply your tooth brushing ritual consistently and visit the dentist and/or dental hygienist at least once a year.Although it is usually caused by tartar, inflamed gums can also have another cause. The dentist can detect this and resolve it immediately or refer you to a specialist.