The Hazards of Gingivitis

Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
Updated on September 14, 2024
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Gingivitis refers to an inflammation of the gum tissues, commonly caused by not brushing teeth in time after eating, accumulation of food residues or dental plaque around the teeth, which over time forms tartar due to the calcification by saliva. This long-term irritation to the gum tissue leads to bleeding gums, including bleeding while eating or brushing teeth. It is necessary to get a timely dental cleaning, otherwise it can lead to periodontitis or even result in loose teeth, and potentially tooth loss. Therefore, the harm caused by gingivitis is significant. Once gingivitis occurs, it requires timely dental cleaning to remove tartar and other irritating factors to alleviate symptoms of gum bleeding, allowing the gums to return to a normal, healthy state.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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What to soak and drink for gingivitis?

If the patient has gingivitis caused by excessive internal heat, it is appropriate to soak some honeysuckle or drink chrysanthemum tea. However, using only these herbal teas for the treatment of gingivitis will not be very effective. It is recommended that patients address the underlying causes of their gingivitis, whether it be dental caries or pulpitis that is causing the gum inflammation. It is advised that patients seek treatment in a hospital under the guidance of a professional doctor. Taking anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers as appropriate can be very effective in reducing inflammation. Additionally, using traditional Chinese medicine to clear heat and detoxify can also help reduce inflammation and internal heat. Patients should focus on a bland diet and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Maintaining a regular diet and lifestyle and developing good habits are also recommended. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Can gingivitis and bad breath be completely cured?

Halitosis, or bad breath, refers to odors emitted from the mouth or other air-filled cavities such as the nasal cavities, sinuses, and throat, which can significantly impact social interactions. It is advised that patients experiencing gum bleeding or bad breath visit a hospital for dental cleaning, which may include polishing and scaling to effectively remove dental plaque, tartar, and debris, thus eliminating most bacteria. For severe cases of bad breath, it is recommended to seek medical treatment at a hospital under the guidance of a doctor, as it is generally treatable. Patients are advised not to be overly anxious, feel inferior, or be stressed psychologically. Additionally, maintaining daily oral hygiene is crucial; it is reasonable to brush teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and evening, and to rinse the mouth after each meal. Using dental floss to clean between the teeth can help eliminate oral odors.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
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The difference between periodontitis and gingivitis

Periodontitis and gingivitis have essential differences. Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontitis. Both gingivitis and periodontitis involve the formation of periodontal pockets, but the pockets in gingivitis are pseudo pockets, caused by inflammation of the gums which leads to the local proliferation or swelling of the gums, enveloping part of the tooth crown. In contrast, the periodontal pockets in periodontitis are true pockets, caused by the resorption of the alveolar bone, a condition that accompanies the loss of alveolar bone. Therefore, the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis lies in whether there is bone loss or not.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Can I eat mutton with gingivitis?

When patients have gingivitis, it is generally advised not to eat lamb. Because lamb is considered a heat-inducing food, and the inflammation in the patient's body is often caused by excessive internal heat. Eating lamb in such cases could potentially exacerbate the condition, making the symptoms more severe. It is suggested that patients can eat some chicken, duck, or fish instead, as these high-quality protein sources are good choices for the body. Additionally, it is important to keep the diet light and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Try to avoid foods that can cause internal heat, such as lychee or durian, which are considered heat-inducing fruits. It's appropriate to consume some kiwi and dragon fruit, which can provide a substantial amount of vitamins and also help in the repair of teeth.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
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The difference between periodontitis and gingivitis.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are distinct conditions, with gingivitis being an early stage of periodontitis. If gingivitis is not treated in time, it can progress into periodontitis. The difference between gingivitis and periodontitis lies in the formation of periodontal pockets. During the stages of gingivitis and periodontitis, periodontal pockets are categorized into true and false pockets. During an outbreak of periodontitis, true periodontal pockets form due to the loss of alveolar bone, whereas the pockets during the gingivitis stage are false pockets, formed by the overgrowth of gum tissue. Once true periodontal pockets are formed, there is either loss or destructive resorption of the alveolar bone. Therefore, the crucial difference between gingivitis and periodontitis lies in whether there is destructive resorption of the alveolar bone, which fundamentally distinguishes the two conditions.