Should gingivitis be treated with hot compresses or cold compresses?

Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
Updated on September 13, 2024
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When patients experience gingivitis, this condition is generally related to inflammation within the body, a prolonged habit of poor diet leading to decreased immune function, resulting in inflammation of the gums. When gingivitis occurs, since it involves inflammation, it is generally recommended to apply cold compresses to relieve the pain somewhat; one should definitely not apply hot compresses as they might increase the local inflammation. It is advised that patients undergo appropriate medical treatment. They can take some anti-inflammatory drugs orally, such as Metronidazole or Tinidazole, or a combination with antibiotic anti-inflammatory drugs. If the pain is severe, one can also use antipyretic analgesics to alleviate local tooth pain. Most importantly, patients should develop good dietary and lifestyle habits.

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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 Cui
Dentistry
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What should I do if gingivitis causes facial swelling?

Some patients with severe gum swelling and pain may also experience inflammation and pain in nearby soft tissues, such as facial swelling and pain, which are also common. In such cases, patients can take some anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications for treatment, which can effectively relieve the symptoms of gum swelling and pain. If the gum swelling and pain are alleviated, the facial swelling will also subside, so it is recommended that patients treat it with medications in a timely manner. Additionally, it is essential for patients to maintain oral hygiene, develop correct brushing habits, have regular dental cleanings, pay attention to the method of brushing, and persist in brushing their teeth morning and night, spending three to five minutes each time. Furthermore, patients can appropriately supplement some nutrients to help boost their immunity.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Where is it effective to massage for gingivitis treatment?

When the patient experiences gingivitis pain, if they want to treat and alleviate it through traditional Chinese medicine massage, the simplest method is to massage the Hegu acupoint on the hand. Additionally, massaging the Xiaguan acupoint can also play a role in alleviation. It is advised that if the patient experiences severe pain and acute inflammation of the gums, they should first maintain a light diet and drink more water for conditioning. If there is no improvement, oral anti-inflammatory drugs such as artificial bezoar metronidazole can be taken. This can be combined with some antibiotic anti-inflammatory drugs, such as amoxicillin, levofloxacin hydrochloride, or other drugs like roxithromycin, all of which can have anti-inflammatory effects and relieve pain. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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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.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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How to treat gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis and periodontitis are both phenomena of periodontal diseases. Gingivitis is the initial stage of periodontitis, with the earliest phase typically being common gingivitis. If gingivitis is not well controlled, it can further develop into periodontitis. However, once periodontitis occurs, there is definitely inflammation of the gums. In the development of both gingivitis and periodontitis, dental plaque and tartar generally play a major role. When gingivitis occurs, the lesions are generally limited to the gum tissue, and at this time, the course of the disease is relatively milder. If gingivitis is not cured and develops into periodontitis, it will not only damage the gums but also the alveolar bone, and other periodontal tissues will also be destroyed. Therefore, it is advised that patients with gingivitis should take timely treatment measures.