What is gingivitis?

Noble Smile Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

6734 Westheimer Lakes N Dr #103, Katy, TX 77494

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease. It causes irritation, swelling, and redness in your gingiva – the part of your gum around the base of your teeth. It’s crucial to take gingivitis seriously and treat it on time. It can lead to much more serious gum disease called periodontitis and tooth loss.

Having poor oral hygiene is the main cause of gingivitis. Maintaining good oral health practices, such as flossing daily, brushing twice a day, and getting regular dental check-ups, can help prevent and reverse gingivitis.

Symptoms

Some signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:

 

· Swollen gums

· Dark red gums

· Bad breath

· Gums that bleed when you brush or floss

· Tender and receding gums

 

When to see a dentist?

If you notice any signs and symptoms of this disease, schedule an appointment with your dentist. The sooner you treat, the better you get chances to reverse the damage and prevent its progression to more severe gum disease. 

What causes gingivitis? 

When food and plaque get trapped in a small space called a sulcus, gum infection or gingivitis is formed around that area. Plaque is a thin layer of bacteria, constantly forms on the surface of your teeth. As it advances, it becomes tartar. You can develop gingivitis when plaque extends below the gum line. If left untreated, gingivitis can cause the gums to separate from the teeth. This can cause injury to the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. If the infection progresses, you may ultimately lose your tooth. 

Risk Factors

Factors that can increase your risk of gingivitis include:

· Poor oral hygiene habits

· Tobacco

· Dry mouth 

· Older age

· Poor nutrition, including vitamin C deficiency

· Medical conditions that decrease immunity, such as leukemia, HIV/AIDS, or cancer treatment

· Certain drugs, such as phenytoin for epileptic seizures, and some calcium channel blockers, used for angina, high blood pressure, and other conditions

· Hormonal changes mostly related to pregnancy, menstrual cycle, or use of birth control pills

· Genetics

· Medical conditions, like certain viral and fungal infections

Complications

As touched earlier, untreated gingivitis can spread to underlying tissue and bone. It can cause much more serious conditions, like periodontitis, that can lead to tooth loss.

 

Chronic gingiva inflammation is found to be linked with some systemic diseases, like respiratory disease, diabetes, stroke, etc. Some research suggests that the bacteria that cause periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through gum tissue. It can possibly affect your heart, lungs, and other parts of your body. 

Prevention

• Maintaining good oral hygiene and cleaning your mouth as instructed by your dentist can prevent gingivitis. 
• Seeing your dentist or dental hygienist regularly can keep your oral health in good shape. Your dentist will also check if there’s any potential danger for such disease. 
• Eating healthy and managing blood sugar (in case you’ve diabetes) is important in maintaining your gum health. 

Takeaway

Since eliminating plaque is critical in preventing gingivitis, make sure to use an anti-gingivitis toothpaste and mouthwash specially formulated for your gums. Focus on maintaining a good oral health routine and never miss your dental appointments.