Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammation of the tissues that surround your teeth caused by the accumulation of plaque. Symptoms in the early stages may include bleeding gums, red, swollen, sensitive gums, and poor breath. It occurs when plaque, a naturally occurring sticky film carrying bacteria, accumulates on teeth, causing irritation of the gum tissue. Plaque creates toxins, which irritate the gums.
Signs and symptoms of gingivitis
You might not be aware that you have gingivitis because its early signs aren't usually noticeable. As the illness develops with time, you may develop:
- Bad breath that persists even after brushing
- Gums that bleed readily, especially after brushing your teeth
- Red and inflamed gums
- Food sensitivity (hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks)
- Tenderness or discomfort while chewing food
Causes
The most prevalent cause of gingivitis is the buildup of bacterial plaque between and around teeth. Dental plaque is a biofilm that develops on teeth over time. It happens when bacteria attach and accumulate on the smooth surface of a tooth.
This plaque can solidify and form calculus, or tartar, near the gums at the base of the teeth. Tartar usually has a yellow-white color. Only dental specialists are capable of removing calculus. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause immune system responses that destroy gingival or gum tissue. It may eventually cause other issues, such as tooth loss.
When to visit the dentist
If you suspect you have gum disease, you should see a dentist immediately since it remains treatable in its early stages. If you experience any of the signs of gum disease, it is better to make an appointment with your dentist. Early warning signs include red, swollen, and readily bleeding gums.
Diagnosing gingivitis
Your gums will be probed with a little ruler during a dental examination. This probing is used to check for inflammation. It measures any pockets that may exist around your teeth. A normal depth ranges from one to three millimeters. Your dentist may also conduct X-rays to detect bone loss.
Consult your dentist about gum disease risk factors and symptoms. This may help identify gingivitis. If you're diagnosed with gingivitis, you may need to see a periodontist. A periodontist is a dentist who focuses on the treatment of gum problems.
Treatment
If diagnosed early and treated promptly and properly, gingivitis can be treated at home through proper oral hygiene. However, if symptoms persist or the issue compromises a person's quality of life, they may choose to seek medical treatment.
Gingivitis treatment usually includes professional dental treatment as well as follow-up procedures performed at home by the patient. A dental practitioner may first perform scaling to eliminate excess plaque and tartar. This might be unpleasant, especially if the tartar accumulation is severe or the gums are tender. They may suggest follow-up sessions to monitor a person's plaque and tartar. This allows the dentist to detect and treat any recurrences promptly.
Gingivitis prevention
Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent gingivitis. Even if your gums are bleeding and inflamed, continue brushing your teeth to reverse the situation. You can also boost the health of your mouth by:
- Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet
- Avoiding sugary and fatty foods
- Brushing your teeth after each meal
- Drinking water with fluoride
- Avoiding or quitting smoking
The bottom line
Everyone has bacteria in their mouths. Good dental hygiene can prevent bacteria from causing gingivitis, which is the initial stage of gum disease. If you detect and treat gingivitis early, you can prevent lasting damage to your teeth and gums. Visit the dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and checkups, rather than only when you have a toothache or another dental problem.
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