Why Is Mouthwash For Tender and Sensitive Gums Beneficial?

Most of the time, your mouth is teeming with germs. They love moist, dark places with lots of carbs and sugars to snack on, and your mouth provides the perfect environment for them to thrive. Unfortunately, this germ-related activity can result in gum problems. Tender and sensitive gums are an early sign of gum problems, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash for tender and sensitive gums can help protect against gum problems.

Germs and Gum Problems

The connection between germs and gum problems is fairly simple. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) describes periodontal (gum) problems as your body's natural inflammatory response to the harmful germs in your mouth. Although redness, swelling, tenderness and bad breath are early signs of gum inflammation, this first stage of gum problems can be reversed. But it is going to take a bit of effort on your part, and an antimicrobial mouthwash can give you an advantage.

Benefits of Antimicrobial Mouthwashes

Not only can an antimicrobial mouthwash help reverse gum problems, but a mouthwash that reduces and helps protect against germs in your mouth can also help prevent inflamed and tender gums, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) Mouth Healthy site. The right mouthwash can help provide protection against germs that cause plaque formation and gum problems. This type of alcohol-free rinse is available without a prescription and is safe for everyday use.

Dentists often recommend the use of a prescription-strength antimicrobial mouthwash for patients who are already undergoing treatment for gum problems. Its ingredients should help protect against the germs that can cause gum tenderness, gum sensitivity and plaque formation over time. Prescription antimicrobial rinses are used to help protect against germs after gum surgery.

The ABCs of Oral Hygiene

If your gums are tender and you are experiencing other signs of early gum problems, using a mouthwash for tender gums can help improve the condition. But as any dental professional will tell you, there is much more to do if you want to regularly protect your mouth from harmful germs. And now is the perfect opportunity to review your oral hygiene basics:

• Are you thoroughly brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste?
• Are you using a soft-bristled toothbrush and replacing it every three to four months?
• Are you flossing between your teeth once a day?
• Are you seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar?
• Are you using an antimicrobial mouthwash?

If you answered "no" to any of these nitty-gritties of oral hygiene, you may be letting the germs in your mouth have their way with your gums. The essentials of keeping germs under control and your gums healthy are at your disposal; keep alert to the signs of tenderness to tackle gum problems head-on.