What is the main cause of gingivitis?
Everyone has millions of bacteria in their mouth – and that’s normal. But when these bacteria build up on your teeth and gums, they can cause Gingivitis.
Symptoms include red, swollen and bleeding gums. It also causes bad breath. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and can lead to periodontitis, which can damage your teeth and jawbone.
Causes
Every person has millions of bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria in small quantities are considered normal, but excessive amounts of bacteria can lead to a thick sticky substance (plaque) that irritates gum tissue and produces toxins that may contribute to gingivitis.
If the irritated tissue is not removed promptly, it can progress to more serious gum disease, including periodontitis. Periodontitis causes tooth and bone loss, but can be reversed with prompt treatment.
Gingivitis often develops in response to inadequate brushing and flossing, but it can also be caused by certain health conditions, medications or hormonal changes. It can also be aggravated by smoking. Pregnancy can make mild gingivitis worse, mainly because of the effects of hormones on the gum tissues. Gingivitis is a chronic condition, but prompt treatment can usually reverse its symptoms and prevent the progression to more serious gum disease. It is best prevented by practicing good oral hygiene, frequent dental cleanings (at least every six months) and using tooth-brushing and interproximal toothbrushing techniques that are rated for plaque removal.
Symptoms
Bacteria build up on the teeth and form a sticky film called plaque. If not removed, the bacteria irritate the gum tissue and cause inflammation. This inflammation causes the gums to become red and swollen, but does not usually cause pain. The gums may also begin to pull away from the teeth and create small pockets which can fill with bacteria, food, and plaque. These pockets can lead to the more serious condition of periodontitis.
Gingivitis can be prevented with good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist. A dental hygienist can help show you how to brush and floss effectively.
In addition, a person’s overall health and diet can influence his or her risk of gingivitis. Conditions such as diabetes, smoking, and taking certain medications (including corticosteroids) can increase a person’s risk of gingivitis. In addition, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding have a greater chance of developing gingivitis.
Diagnosis
Your dentist or hygienist can detect gingivitis based on symptoms such as red and swollen gums that are tender to the touch or bleeding when brushed. They can also detect it by checking for small pockets around the teeth and in the areas of the gums that collect food and plaque (known as plaque traps).
Your dental professional will use a periodontal probe to measure the depth of these pockets and may recommend an X-ray. Other diagnostic methods include a thorough visual examination and clinical assessment. These exams are often performed by a dental hygienist, but the interpretation and diagnosis are done by your dentist.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease, which can be reversed with regular oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings. It can lead to more severe gum disease, including periodontitis, if left untreated. Gingivitis is a common condition; however, most people don’t know they have it or don’t seek treatment because they don’t experience any pain.
Treatment
Gingivitis is usually easily treated with consistent brushing, flossing and use of a good mouthwash. It is also necessary to receive a professional cleaning from our office to remove bacteria, plaque and tartar from teeth. During your cleaning, we use different tools to ensure the best possible outcome.
Untreated gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of gum disease that damages the underlying tissue and bone, called periodontitis. The symptoms of gum disease include bad breath, red and swollen gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or eating. Other signs are crooked teeth that don’t fit together properly and sensitive or painful teeth.
Gingivitis is most often caused by poor brushing and flossing habits, but it can also be a side effect of some medications. These drugs include phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek) used for epileptic seizures and some calcium channel blockers taken for angina or high blood pressure. Other medical conditions, such as diabetes or pregnancy, can also make people more prone to gingivitis.
