Low salivation
Low salivation, as is the case with elderly people or patients after radiation in the head/neck area, is also a risk factor for gingivitis. Older people often drink too little.Saliva is lacking to maintain the pH level and teeth and gums are exposed to acidity, which causes inflammation. There are special gels that are supposed to stimulate the flow of saliva.
However, these are only a temporary help and are not a permanent solution. The affected patient should drink a lot of water to keep the mouth moist and not let bacteria stick to one spot for too long. Daily rinsing with mouthwash solutions can also improve the bacterial environment.
