Gingivitis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease (periodontal disease) that causes irritation, redness, and swelling (inflammation) of your gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth. It’s important to take gingivitis seriously and seek prompt treatment. Gingivitis can lead to much more serious gum disease called periodontitis and tooth loss.

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What Does Gingivitis Look Like?

Gingivitis typically starts with gums that get red and swollen and bleed easily when you brush or floss. Over time, you might notice gums pulling away from the teeth or persistent bad breath. If your gums look puffy or you notice any bleeding, these could be signs of gingivitis.

Symptoms of Gingivitis

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
• Bad breath
• Receding gums
• Sensitive teeth

Causes of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is commonly caused by poor oral hygiene, leading to plaque buildup on tooth surfaces. Other risk factors include:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Older age
• Dry mouth
• Poor nutrition, including vitamin C deficiency
• Dental restorations that don’t fit properly
• Conditions that decrease immunity such as leukemia, HIV/AIDS, or cancer treatment
• Certain drugs, such as phenytoin (for epileptic seizures), bismuth (for upset stomach), and some birth control pills
• Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, menstrual cycle, or use of birth control pills
• Medical conditions such as certain viral and fungal infections.

Prevention Tips

Preventing gingivitis is as simple as maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
• Quit smoking to improve your gum health.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks.

Gingivitis Treatment Options

The goal of gingivitis treatment is to eliminate the inflammation and return gums to healthy, functioning condition.

• At home:
  • Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
  • Use an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at removing plaque and tartar.
  • Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between teeth.
  • Rinse daily with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria that cause plaque.
• At Coast Dental:
  • Professional dental cleaning to remove all traces of plaque and tartar, which can be difficult to clean on your own.
  • Scaling and root planing to clean beneath the gumline.
  • Education on proper brushing and flossing techniques.

Seeking Relief from Gingivitis? Discover Comprehensive Dental Care at Coast Dental Today

At Coast Dental, we pride ourselves on our personalized treatment plans and state-of-the-art technologies. Our skilled professionals are committed to providing the best care possible to address gingivitis and enhance your overall oral health. Don’t let gingivitis progress—visit us today to get your smile back on track.

“Maintaining optimal oral health is foundational to your overall well-being. Gingivitis, though common, should never be overlooked as it can lead to more severe dental issues if left untreated. Our goal at Coast Dental is not just to treat gingivitis but to educate and empower our patients to prevent it through proper oral hygiene practices. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to a healthy, vibrant smile. Let’s work together towards preserving your smile for a lifetime.”
– Dr. Riham Diasti, Coast Dental