Gingivitis is a very common dental condition that causes gum inflammation and irritation. It is the first stage of gum disease and if left untreated can develop into a more serious condition called periodontitis. This article will provide an overview of what causes gingivitis, its symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment options. Understanding more about this condition can help you identify it early and take steps to prevent it from worsening.
1. What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a reversible inflammation and swelling of the gums. It occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth at and below the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. When plaque is not removed through brushing and cleaning between the teeth, it hardens into a rough deposit called tartar that traps even more bacteria. The bacteria in plaque cause the gums to become irritated and inflamed. Early signs of gingivitis include red, swollen or bleeding gums. If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis, a more serious gum infection that causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and bone loss to occur.
2. Causes and Risk Factors
The main cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. When plaque and tartar are not removed from the teeth regularly through brushing, flossing and other cleaning methods, bacteria are allowed to overgrow along the gumline. This bacterial overgrowth triggers an inflammatory response in the gums. Certain risk factors can also increase one’s chances of developing gingivitis, including:
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or puberty. Hormones influence how fast plaque forms and how the gums respond.
- Systemic conditions like diabetes. High blood sugar levels from conditions like diabetes can make gingivitis more severe.
- Some medications like birth control pills, antihypertensives, antidepressants and heart medications can cause dry mouth and make plaque harder to remove.
- High levels of stress have been linked to worsening of periodontal disease.
- Tobacco use. Smoking or chewing tobacco severely damages the gums and slows healing.
- Poor nutrition. Not getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals needed for gum health from foods can raise risk.
- Some people are genetically more susceptible to gum disease.
3. Symptoms
The most common early signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Gums that are red, swollen or tender or that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing.
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth.
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth.
- Gums that are puffy and look darker red than usual tissue around the teeth.
Symptoms tend to be mild with gingivitis. As the condition progresses to periodontitis if left untreated, symptoms may worsen and include loose teeth, deep pockets between teeth and gums, and recession of the gums. Seeking treatment is important once any signs of gingivitis appear.
4. Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose gingivitis, a dentist or dental hygienist will examine the gums, check for any signs of inflammation or bleeding, and may take dental X-rays to assess bone levels. No other tests are usually needed for a gingivitis diagnosis.
Treatment focuses on eliminating plaque and involves improved home care and professional cleaning. At home, the key is brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth once daily with floss or interdental brushes. Professional treatment may include:
- Dental cleaning and scaling to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline.
- Root planing to smooth rough tooth surfaces where plaque tends to build up.
- Oral hygiene instruction on proper technique.
- Use of an antimicrobial mouthwash may help some cases.
With proper home care and professional cleanings as needed, gingivitis is very treatable and reversible in most cases. Treatment aims to eliminate inflammation and prevent the condition from progressing.
5. Prevention
The best way to prevent gingivitis is through diligent daily plaque removal and gum care. This involves:
- Brushing teeth twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
- Cleaning between the teeth once daily with floss or interdental brushes.
- Having dental checkups and cleanings every six months.
- Using a fluoride mouthwash as an additional protective measure.
- Managing any medical conditions like diabetes that can increase gum disease risk.
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake, which damage gums.
- Eating a nutritious diet with plenty of calcium, vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques.
- Seeing a dentist promptly if any signs of gingivitis appear for early treatment.
Conclusion
Gingivitis or tartar is a common yet reversible form of gum disease caused by plaque that leads to gum inflammation. With proper oral hygiene habits, it can usually be prevented from developing or treated if it does occur. Seeing a dentist regularly is important for monitoring gum health and catching any issues early before they worsen. Following good home care and getting professional cleanings as needed helps keep gingivitis from progressing to a more serious stage.
