Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild, often reversible form of gum disease. In Gingivitis there is inflammation of the gum tissue, which surrounds the teeth. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to the support tissues and bone, a serious condition called periodontitis.

Gingivitis is caused by a substance that forms on teeth called plaque. Plaque is a sticky material, composed of bacteria, mucus, food and other substances. It hardens to form tartar. When plaque is left on the teeth for an extended period of time, it can lead to gingivitis. Toxins produced by bacteria in dental plaque irritate the gum tissue and cause infection, inflammation, and pain.

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

• Inadequate brushing and flossing
• Stress
• Clenching teeth together or grinding teeth
• Poor nutrition
• Diabetes
• Breathing through the mouth
• HIV infection
• Improper bite
• Advancing age
• Pregnancy
• Birth control pills
• Family members with gum disease
• Sex: male
• Poorly fitting dentures
• Some medications taken for high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression
• Some seizure medications
• Drinking alcohol
• Smoking
• Down syndrome

Gingivitis is often painless, with symptoms developing when it becomes worse.
Symptoms may include:

• Swollen, puffy gums
• Tender gums
• Redness in the gums or around the teeth
• Gums bleed during brushing or eating
• Gum tissue that recedes or changes shape
• Persistent bad breath

The dentist will examine your teeth and gums, assessing for swelling and areas where the tissue is pulling away from the teeth, forming a pocket. Early diagnosis of the problem enables prompt treatment and the possibility of reversing the condition. It is important to see your dentist every six months for a cleaning because Gingivitis may have no symptoms in the early stages.

Gingivitis therapy aims to remove the irritating plaque and prevent its return.
Treatment includes:

• Regular dental check ups and good oral hygiene
• Careful and frequent brushing and flossing
• A healthful diet that is low in saturated fat and rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables

Self-care Brushing Thoroughly brush and floss your teeth. Use a soft bristled toothbrush held at a 45-degree angle to the line where your teeth and gums meet. An electronic toothbrush may make brushing easier for patients with physical limitations. Replace the brush when the bristles become bent or frayed. Move the brush in small circular movements along the gumline and chewing surfaces of your teeth.
Flossing
Brushing removes bacteria from the teeth. But the brush cannot reach everywhere. Flossing helps rid areas between teeth of food particles and bacteria. Hold the floss tight. Gently bring it down between the teeth. Do not pop the floss against the gum. Curve the floss around the tooth and rub up and down. Adjust the floss, so you use a fresh section for each tooth, including the back side of the last teeth, left and right, upper and lower.
Other Self Care
The dentist may recommend additional self-care treatments, such as massaging the gums with a rubber tip. Rinses to fight bacteria and plaque buildup may help some patients.
Dental care
Dental health professionals check for gingivitis and remove plaque that has built up on teeth. A visit every six months is usually considered adequate. Patients with gingivitis may need more frequent cleanings. If the disease progresses and plaque builds up below the gum line, the area must be scraped off and smoothed with dental tools. Otherwise, accumulated plaque and tartar build up make it easier for bacteria to grow.
If an area has progressed to periodontal disease, surgery or medication may be required. Treating an underlying medical problem may improve the health of your gums.
In patients with recurring gingivitis, the dentist will evaluate whether some other condition may be contributing to the gum disease.

Strategies to prevent Gingivitis include:

• Good dental habits:
  • Brushing teeth twice daily
  • Flossing at least once a day
  • Visiting the dentist's office for a cleaning at least every six months
• Eating balanced, nutritious meals
• Not smoking
• Avoiding alcohol