Gingivitis
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. In this stage, the gums are somewhat inflamed and it may bleed a bit when brushing and flossing. Normally, healthy gums do not bleed. If you do experience bleeding from brushing and flossing, there is a possibility that you may start to see the first stage of the disease, and it even may be possible that you are beyond the first stage.
Brushing and flossing every day can help reduce plaque build up. However, thorough hygiene and nutrition may not remove all of it. If there are still traces of plaque, this will produce toxins that will begin to irritate the gum tissue and cause gum disease. If gingivitis is left untreated, this may become a very serious periodontal issue and can cause permanent damage to the teeth and jaw.
What are gingivitis symptoms?
Here are the following symptoms of gingivitis:
- Swollen gums
- Tender gums that tend to bleed easily when you brush
- Gums have already receded from your teeth where the teeth look somewhat elongated
- Pockets are formed between the teeth and gums, where plaque and food residual build up
- Recurring bad breath
- An awful taste in the mouth
How to prevent gingivitis?
Good and regular oral hygiene is very necessary to prevent teeth and gum disease. Proper brushing after each and every meal along with proper flossing is very important. A professional cleaning is necessary so your hygienist and dentist can remove tartar, which is hardened built up plaque. The following list are ways to prevent gingivitis:
- Proper brushing and flossing to control plaque and the build up of tartar
- Proper dieting for effective nutrition of the teeth and jawbone
- Avoiding any form of smoking
- Visiting the dentist regularly.
Dr. Jared Bowyer DDS is a dentist in Vancouver, WA who can help with the treatment of gum disease. To learn more, please call us at 360-253-2640 or visit our website.