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What is gingivitis? Man holding his hand to his jaw and cheek area while in pain

What is gingivitis?

If you’ve ever wondered “What is gingivitis?” you’re not alone. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is common, and it can have long-lasting impacts on oral health. We’ll dive into what causes gingivitis, symptoms to watch out for and how to effectively treat gingivitis.

 

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, and it’s primarily caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, especially when someone isn’t regularly practicing good oral hygiene.

 

What causes gum disease?

Here are a few of the factors that can lead to gingivitis:

  • Practicing poor oral hygiene: Not regularly brushing and flossing can lead to a buildup of plaque.
  • Using tobacco: Smoking or using tobacco products can lead to a higher risk of gingivitis.
  • Changing hormones: A change in hormones can lead to gums being more sensitive.
  • Taking medications that dry out the mouth: Some medications reduce the flow of saliva, which can lead to the buildup of plaque.

 

What are some signs of gum disease?

Gingivitis can have a few noticeable symptoms that you can keep an eye out for. Here are some common signs that gingivitis may be an issue:

  • Bleeding gums: Gums that start bleeding when brushing or flossing are a common indicator of gingivitis.
  • Swollen or red gums: If gums are red and swollen rather than firm and pink, gingivitis may be a concern.
  • Bad breath: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of developing gingivitis.
  • Receding gums: If gums seem to be pulling away from teeth, this can also be a sign of gingivitis.

 

How do you treat gingivitis?

Treating gingivitis can often be a matter of getting back in the habit of proper oral hygiene. Here are a few ways to help get your oral health back on track:

  • Improved oral hygiene: Brushing at least twice a day and flossing regularly can help significantly in the fight against gingivitis.
  • Regular dental cleanings: Getting to the dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning and staying in the habit of maintaining that schedule will help with plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Regular dental follow up appointments: When you come in for your regular dental cleanings, we’ll also check on the progress of your gingivitis. Monitoring the health of your gums is a big part of your six-month checkups.

 

If you think you may be developing gingivitis, please contact our team at Schumacher & Bauer to set up an appointment. The sooner we can identify any dental issues, the quicker that we can treat them and get your oral health back on track.