Gingivitis: what it is and how to treat it
Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the gums that can develop into a serious condition. Here’s how to prevent it.
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can develop into a more serious infection known as periodontitis .
Gingivitis and periodontitis are the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, according to the American Dental Association . Dental infections need to be prevented because they are not only harmful to your health, but can also be very costly. Learn what causes gingivitis and how to prevent and treat the disease.
What causes gingivitis
The gums hold the teeth in a deep part that we cannot see. In this part, below the edge of the gums, there are small spaces called grooves. In these spaces, food and bacterial plaque can accumulate, facilitating the appearance of infections.
Plaque is a biofilm of bacteria that constantly forms on the surface of the teeth. As plaque grows, it hardens and becomes tartar. When plaque grows below the gum line, it can become an infection that, if left untreated, can separate the gums from the teeth. This causes damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. The tooth can become loose and unstable. If the infection progresses, tooth loss or tooth extraction may occur.
Risk factors for gingivitis
Risk factors for gingivitis are :
- Smoking or chewing tobacco;
- Diabetes ;
- Medications such as oral contraceptives, anticonvulsants, steroids, calcium channel blockers, and chemotherapy;
- Crooked teeth;
- Poorly fitting dental appliances;
- Pregnancy;
- Genetics;
- Compromised immunity, as in the case of AIDS
What are the symptoms of gingivitis?
Many people are unaware that they have gingivitis . It is possible to have gum disease without experiencing any symptoms . However, gingivitis can present symptoms such as:
- Red, tender or swollen gums;
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing;
- Gums separated from the teeth;
- Tooth loss;
- Change in the way the teeth fit together when biting (malocclusion);
- I put it between the teeth and the gums;
- Pain when chewing;
- Sensitive teeth;
- Partial dentures that no longer fit;
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing.
How to diagnose gingivitis
During your dental appointment, your gums will be examined with a small ruler. This will show if there is inflammation. A normal depth is one to three millimeters. Your dentist may also order X-rays to check for bone loss.
If gingivitis is diagnosed , the person may be referred to a periodontist, who is a dentist who specializes in treating gum disease , such as gingivitis itself .
How to treat gingivitis
To treat gingivitis , practice good oral hygiene, reduce tobacco consumption, and control diabetes. Other treatments include:
- Deep dental cleaning with the dentist;
- Antibiotic medications;
- Surgery;
- Home remedies. To learn about several home remedy options for gingivitis , take a look at the article: “ Ten home remedy options for gingivitis ”.
How to prevent gingivitis?
Gingivitis can be prevented with proper oral hygiene. Maintaining a balanced diet, visiting the dentist regularly, flossing daily and brushing your teeth at least twice a day also help prevent gingivitis .