What You Can Do at Home to Prevent Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, an incredibly common oral health condition that starts with gum inflammation but can lead to much more serious oral health problems if left untreated. 

Gingivitis develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and irritates your gums. While gingivitis is reversible with proper care, ignoring it increases your risk of developing periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and other health complications.

The good news is that good oral hygiene is the foundation of preventing gingivitis and more advanced gum disease, and there’s a lot you can do at home to protect your health. Aditi Saxena, DDS, Deepal Patel, DMD, and our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry specialize in oral hygiene and teeth cleaning, and here are some of our best tips to lower your risk of gingivitis and periodontitis.

Start — and stick to — a daily oral hygiene routine

Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is the most effective way to prevent gingivitis. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque, which can contribute to gum inflammation.

Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid irritating your gums, and replace it every three to four months. Floss at least once a day because flossing helps remove plaque and debris between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. For even better results, ask our team about adding an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.

Be mindful of your diet

Did you know that your diet plays a big role in oral health? Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals — especially vitamin C and calcium — helps strengthen your teeth and gums. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery can act as natural toothbrushes by stimulating your gums and removing plaque.

Avoid sugary snacks and drinks. Sugar feeds the bacteria in plaque and accelerates gum irritation. If you indulge in sweets, rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth afterward to minimize the impact.

Pay attention to your everyday habits

Teeth clenching or grinding is a common issue among people of all ages. These unconscious habits can put extra pressure on your gums and exacerbate gum irritation. If you notice you grind your teeth, especially during sleep, talk to us about getting a custom night guard to protect your teeth and gums.

During your oral care routine, you should also stay vigilant for signs of gingivitis. When you brush and floss, look for symptoms like tender gums, bleeding, or swelling, and bring up any symptoms you notice at your next dentist appointment.

Quit smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for gingivitis and other gum diseases. That’s because using tobacco weakens your immune system, which makes it harder for your gums to heal after irritation or infection.

Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of gum disease and improve your overall health, and you don’t have to do it alone. Ask our team about how to get started and where you can find resources for smoking cessation.

Don’t skip professional dental cleanings

Diligent at-home care can help prevent gingivitis, but it’s no substitute for professional dental cleanings. Even with thorough brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, a calcified substance that can only be removed with professional dental tools.

Ideally, Regular cleanings every six months are essential for preventing gingivitis and maintaining oral health. We also examine your gums at your appointment to catch early signs of gum disease before they progress.

Combining good daily habits with regular visits to your dentist is the best way to keep your gums healthy and your smile bright, and our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry is ready to help. Book your next cleaning online or call us at 512-886-6734 to get started.