Causes

• The main cause of gum infection is poor dental hygiene, which allows tartar and plaque to build up on teeth and in gums.
  
  

Dental Hygiene

• Proper brushing and flossing are the most important components of good dental hygiene. It is also recommended that individuals visit the dentist at least once a year for a thorough cleaning.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a gum infection or gum disease include swollen or bleeding gums, mouth pain, chronic bad breath and visible pus.
  
  

Treatment

• Your dentist will most likely first prescribe you antibiotics to treat the infection and may also recommend that you take painkillers. In addition, she will suggest a dental hygiene plan to help maintain gum health.
  
  

Tips

• In addition to consistent brushing and rinsing, there are other methods to maintain healthy gums. Gargling every day with an equal combination of hydrogen peroxide and water helps destroy bacteria lurking in your mouth, and a warm saltwater mix gargle has a soothing effect and helps alleviate infections.