The best toothpaste for gingivitis will remove plaque from the teeth and kill bacteria in the mouth that can lead to gum disease. It will contain a number of ingredients that kill microorganisms without being too harsh or abrasive on your teeth and gums. While some toothpastes promise extras, such as teeth-whitening powers, you really do not need to worry about the cosmetic extras when attempting to keep gingivitis under control.
Gingivitis is a type of periodontal disease that makes your gums feel irritated. They may appear red and swollen. When you brush your teeth or floss, your gums may bleed. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of periodontal disease.
Gingivitis can be treated by a thorough cleaning at your dentist's office. The dentist will scrape all the plaque and tartar off of your teeth and gums, which can be painful. To keep gingivitis away, you need to exercise good oral hygiene at home as well.
Toothpaste for gingivitis should contain fluoride. The main purpose of fluoride is to strengthen your tooth's enamel, which keeps cavities away. Fluoride also prohibits bacteria from growing in your mouth, especially bacteria that feeds on acid, which are more prevalent right after you eat. The anti-bacterial properties of fluoride reduce plaque buildup, which can reduce the signs of gingivitis.
The toothpaste should also contain triclosan, an antibacterial agent. Toothpastes that contain triclosan reduce gingivitis, as the triclosan kills bacteria that causes the disease. Some people may be concerned about using a toothpaste with triclosan, as it may cause other health and environmental problems.
If you wish to avoid triclosan, look for a toothpaste for gingivitis that contains metals such as zinc. Zinc and some other metals have anti-bacterial properties and can reduce the amount of plaque in your mouth. While zinc acts differently than triclosan, it still reduces gingivitis.
In addition to using a toothpaste for gingivitis, you should also floss and use a suitable mouthwash. Look for an anti-bacterial mouthwash and use it twice a day, swishing it in your mouth for 30 seconds. Your dentist may prescribe a mouthwash for you. Many antibacterial mouthwashes reduce gingivitis by 30 percent.
Floss at least once a day to remove food particles and bacteria between your teeth. If you are uncomfortable with your flossing technique, ask your dentist for instructions. Use either waxed or unwaxed floss for the same results.