What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. It is caused bacteria found in dental plaque.
Gingivitis is caused by plaque. Plaque is a film of bacteria that is especially tricky in those hard to reach places like: between teeth, around rough places, around broken fillings, or in crevices. The bacteria will harm gums and if not removed, it will harden into a deposits commonly called tartar. Tartar provides more surface for bacteria to grow and irritates the gums. The bacteria produce substances that can harm the gums.
Symptoms of Gingivitis:
Red and tender gums : You may find that your gums may be painful to the touch. Though, mild gingivitis causes little pain and may be overlooked. If left unchecked, however, it can become severe.
Bleeding Gums : When you brush or floss you may have bleeding.
Receding Gums : Normal, healthy gums should be firmly attached to the teeth and underlying bone.
Bad Breath
Soft Gums
Diagnosis
You may find at your six-month cleaning your Premier Dental team member will examine and probe your gums and ask questions about if there is any bleeding when you brush of floss. We will also be looking for tartar on your teeth and under gum line. We may also ask about current medications. This is very important as it can affect existing gingivitis or create a risk for gingivitis for us to monitor.
Should there be any evidence of gingivitis, you can expect it to disappear within a few days once a program of oral hygiene is started. If left unattended or the oral hygiene regimen is pore, it will likely worsen or become periodontitis. This can lead to more serious complications like lose of tissue and bone around teeth.
Prevention
Brush your teeth regularly, preferably in the morning and before bed, and floss your teeth at least once a day. Make sure that you use a soft toothbrush and that the bristles reach the gum line when you brush. Come see us here at Premier Dental Care every six months for a thorough cleaning and to remove any plaque or tartar that has formed.
Still have questions? Call us here at Premier Dental Care and we would be happy to answer all your questions.