The question is frequently asked: If I start brushing and flossing everyday will my gingivitis go away?
This is a difficult question to answer because it depends on how long you’ve neglected your gums and how severe your gingivitis is. And also: the common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene; not the only cause but the most common cause.
Clearly if you’ve been neglecting to floss and brush daily that is probably the cause of your gingivitis.
The Most Common
Cause of Gingivitis
Caused by bacteria…plaque builds up and sticks around the gum line. If you floss and then brush with a potent antibacterial non-toxic agent the plaque gets removed. But if the plaque is neglected and allowed to build up around the gums it will…in a very short space of time…become calcified.
Calcified plaque is called tartar or calculus and it is very hard to get rid of it without visiting the dentist or a dental hygienist. (Tips for dissolving tartar.)
So back to the question: if I start flossing and brushing will my gingivitis go away?
It might improve and you might prevent it from getting dramatically worse. But really if you have gingivitis you should get professional treatment. Once you get a good deep clean you should see some improvement in the health of your gums. Regular oral hygiene will prevent a repeat occurence provided the gingivitis isn’t being caused by some other health condition.
See our page on gingivitis causes for more information.
