Gingivitis Treatment Overview

When to see a dentist

You should always see a dentist if you have symptoms of gingivitis, which include swollen, sensitive, discolored, or bleeding gums.

It’s important to be treated because gingivitis can cause serious complications. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis (infection and destruction of the bone connected to the teeth) or an abscess (pocket of infection) of the gums or jaw. The infection can also enter the bloodstream. leading to sepsis or heart valve problems.

Getting diagnosed

Your dentist can usually diagnose gingivitis by examining your teeth and gums and measuring the depths of your gum tissue pockets. You may need dental X-rays to check the bones around your teeth.

What to expect from your dental visit

• The goal of gingivitis treatment is to improve your dental hygiene. The dentist or dental hygienist cleans your teeth to remove plaque and tartar.
• After your cleaning, your dentist may recommend taking anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) for pain and swelling.
• If gingivitis was caused by a medication or underlying health condition, you may need to stop taking the medication or be referred to a specialist.
• More severe gingivitis may need to be treated with a gum procedure like:
  • Washing (scaling) of the gums
  • Removal of dead or infected tissue (debridement)
  • A local anesthetic to relieve pain
  • Antibiotics
  • Drainage of any abscesses
  • Removal of infected dental implants

Prescription gingivitis medications

• Oral antibiotic rinse: chlorhexidine (Periogard)
• Topical antibiotics: doxycycline (Periostat),  minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin)
• Oral antibiotics: amoxicillin, clindamycin (Cleocin)

Types of gingivitis providers

• A dentist can treat gingivitis.
• A dental hygienist usually does dental cleaning in a dental office.
• A periodontist is a specialist who treats gum disease.

Treating gingivitis at home

Gingivitis needs to be treated by a dentist, but good oral hygiene and other strategies you can do at home can help with pain and inflamed gums.

• Rinse with salt water to help inflamed gums, relieve pain, and reduce bacteria. Add 3/4 teaspoon of salt to a glass of lukewarm water and swish for up to 30 seconds.
• Rinse with a mouthwash that is specially formulated to keep gums healthy, like Crest Gum Health Mouthwash and Listerine Gum Therapy Mouthwash.
• Brush at least twice a day and after each meal with toothpaste that has fluoride.

Wellness and prevention

• Brush your teeth after each meal.
• Floss your teeth nightly.
• Use mouthwash after brushing your teeth.
• Use an electric toothbrush or a circling motion when brushing with a regular toothbrush.
• Stop smoking.
• If you like gum or breath mints, choose ones that are not sweetened with sugar.