Visit the dentist at least once every 6 months for plaque removal. Follow your dentist's home care instructions.
Brush teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush after every meal. The dentist may recommend rinsing with salt water or hydrogen peroxide and water. Avoid using commercial, alcohol-containing mouthwashes, which aggravate the problem.
Floss teeth twice a day to keep plaque from building up.
Eliminate between-meal snacks and reduce carbohydrate intake to help prevent plaque build-up on teeth.
Use an oral irrigation device on the low setting to massage the gums.
Maintain a balanced, healthy diet.
Additional tips:
Avoid the use of tobacco, which aggravates bleeding gums.
Have poorly fitting dentures adjusted and relined by your dentist if they are causing sore spots in gums.
Avoid aspirin unless your health care provider has recommended that you take it.
Control gum bleeding by applying pressure directly on the gums with a gauze pad soaked in ice water.
If you have been diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency, take recommended vitamin supplements
If side effects of medication are irritating, ask your doctor to adjust or substitute another medication. Never change your medication without consulting your doctor.
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