Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum. It is a periodontal disease usually caused by 
bacteria that has no destructive effect on the surrounding tissues. It may progress to “periodontitis” that may destroy the surrounding tissues.
Canker sores have nothing to do with gingivitis. However, they may present at the same time. The symptoms of gingivitis include redness and swelling of the gums, bad breath, and bleeding easily with brushing or flossing. Pain is not a prominent symptom.
Potential risk factors for developing gingivitis:
- Poor oral and dental hygiene.
- Smoking.
- Pregnancy.
- Medications: phenytoin, valproic acid, bismuth, birth control pills, medications for high blood pressures especially calcium channel blockers (nifedipine and amlodipine) and verapamil, and cyclosporine.
- Diabetes.
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin C and Co – enzyme Q10.
- Puberty.
- Gastric acid reflux.
- Cancers.
- HIV/AIDS
- Sjogren disease (a chronic inflammatory disease that is associated with dryness of the mouth and eyes).
- Dental misalignment.
- Dental plaques.
- Viral or bacterial infections of the tonsils.
Nutritional Support:
Restricted Foods:
- Sweets.
- Sugars and refined carbohydrates.
- Carbonated beverages.
- Alcohol.
Recommended Foods:
- Drinking plenty of water.
- Whole grains.
- Legumes.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Fish.
- Flaxseeds.
- Cayenne pepper.
- Cranberries contain a compound that inhibits the attachment of tooth decaying bacteria, and also antioxidants in cranberries reduce inflammation.
Recommended Supplements:
- Co – Enzymes Q10: 100 – 200 mg a day. It should be taken with meal to enhance absorption.
- Vitamin C: 2 – 3 grams a day.
- Folic Acid Mouthwash 1%: rinse twice a day.
- French Maritime Pine Bark Extract: 100 – 200 mg a day.
- Omega – 3 Fatty Acid: 2 – 3 grams a day.
- Calcium: 1000 mg a day.
- Clove Oil: gargle diluted clove oil twice a day, or apply locally on the gums.
- Lime, Lemon, or Baking Soda Solution: rinse 2 – 3 times a day.
- Xylitol (as chewing gums or syrup): 5 – 10 grams a day. Xylitol is a type of sugar alcohol that interferes with the ability of bacteria to attach to the gums to cause an infection.
