Gingivitis

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis, otherwise known as periodontal disease, is a type of gum disease. It’s an infection of your gums that can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss if it’s left untreated. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is easier to treat than advanced stages of the disease. 

Your Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates provider can detect and treat gingivitis during routine dental visits to prevent more serious oral health problems. 

What are the symptoms of gingivitis?

Healthy gums are light pink and fit tightly around your teeth. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:

• Bright red gums
• Swollen, puffy gums
• Bad breath
• Tender gums
• Bleeding gums
• A receding gum line
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Gums that pull away from teeth

If it’s left untreated, gum disease can affect the bone that supports your teeth, causing teeth to become loose or even fall out. See your Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates provider at the first sign of gingivitis to reduce your risk of complications.

What causes gum disease?

Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can build-up on teeth, causes gingivitis. Diseased tissue below the gum line creates pockets that can separate gums from your teeth. Flossing, regular brushing, and routine dental visits are the best ways to remove plaque before gum disease develops. 

What are the common gingivitis risk factors?

Common factors that can increase your risk of developing gingivitis include:

• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Chewing tobacco
• Some medications
• Old fillings
• Crooked teeth
• Pregnancy
• Improperly fitted bridges
• Genetics

You might not notice any symptoms in the early stages of gingivitis, which is why routine dental visits every six months with Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates are important.

How does my dentist diagnose gingivitis?

To find out if you have gingivitis and develop a treatment plan, your Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates provider reviews your symptoms and oral health history. They evaluate your teeth and gums and take dental X-rays.

What are my gingivitis treatment options?

Your personalized gum disease treatment plan varies based on the severity of gingivitis. Your dentist might recommend you undergo non-surgical treatments, such as at-home gum disease trays or in-office scaling and root planing to deep clean teeth and remove hard-to-reach plaque and tartar.

In more severe cases of gum disease, your dentist might suggest you undergo laser gum surgery, soft tissue or bone grafts, or dental implant placement if you have missing permanent teeth.

How can I reduce my risk of developing gingivitis?

You can do several things to prevent gingivitis or reverse it before gum disease progresses to more advanced stages. Examples include:

• Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss every day
• Use antiseptic mouthwash
• Attend routine dental cleanings
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Limit added sugars

Keep your teeth and smile beautiful by allowing your dentist to detect gingivitis early with routine dental visits at Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates. Book your next appointment by phone or online today.