Gingivitis (Gum Disease)
Also known as: Gum Disease, Gum Inflammation, Periodontal Disease, Bleeding Gums
Gingivitis is the earliest and mildest form of gum disease, characterized by inflammation, redness, and bleeding of the gingival tissue surrounding the teeth, primarily caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque along the gumline. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can destroy the bone supporting the teeth and lead to tooth loss. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care.
Symptoms
Causes
- Accumulation of bacterial plaque on teeth and along the gumline
- Hardened plaque (tartar/calculus) that traps bacteria under the gumline
- Poor oral hygiene including infrequent brushing and flossing
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, or menopause
Risk Factors
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Diabetes, especially when blood sugar is poorly controlled
- Dry mouth from medications or medical conditions
- Crooked teeth or poorly fitting dental restorations that are hard to clean
- Vitamin C deficiency
- Genetic predisposition to gum disease
Diagnosis
- Visual examination of the gums for redness, swelling, and bleeding
- Periodontal probing to measure gum pocket depth around each tooth
- Dental X-rays to check for bone loss beneath the gumline
- Review of dental and medical history including risk factors
Treatment
- Professional dental cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar
- Improved daily oral hygiene with proper brushing and flossing techniques
- Antimicrobial mouthwash (chlorhexidine) to reduce bacterial load
- Treatment of underlying conditions such as diabetes
- Repair or replacement of poorly fitting dental work
- Regular dental checkups every 6 months for monitoring
Prevention
- Brush teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash
- Visit the dentist for professional cleanings every 6 months
- Quit smoking or using tobacco products
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D
When to See a Doctor
- Your gums bleed regularly when brushing or flossing
- You have persistent bad breath that does not improve with oral hygiene
- Your gums are visibly red, swollen, or pulling away from your teeth
- You have not had a dental checkup in over a year
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
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