Gingivitis

08 Apr Gingivitis

Gingivitis is gum disease; it’s gum disease in its earliest stages. The more advanced stages are commonly referred to as periodontal disease, which is a terrible infection in the tissues that surround the teeth. However, unlike full blown Periodontal disease, Gingivitis is easily treatable—if its caught in time—and the symptoms of the condition are far less severe. However, this is not to say that gingivitis is something that you should not worry about. Symptoms for Gingivitis vary, and in its initial stages the condition may not present with any actual symptoms at all; but the most common symptoms do include: gums that easily bleed; gums that are tender, red, and swollen; pervasive bad breath.

Causes of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is caused by a number of factors. Yes, gingivitis is commonly associated with poor dental care, but it’s also the cause of tobacco use and medications—steroids, therapy drugs, and oral contraceptives are all possible culprits—genetics, crooked and hard-to-clean teeth, and systemic disease. Pregnancy can also be a culprit for Gingivitis, which is why it’s important to keep with regular dental checkups throughout your pregnancy—assuming, of course, that it’s safe enough to do so.

Getting Rid of a Gingivitis Infection

Remember, Gingivitis is reversible. You may only need an easy trip to the dentist’s office for a professional cleaning. Regular brushing and flossing—remember to keep to a routine of brushing at least twice daily and flossing at least once—and, in certain cases, the possible supplement of a mouth wash to help protect the mouth from further infection.

Remember, Gingivitis, while treatable, is a signal for the more severe periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, in most cases, is treatable, but it is much harder to treat, and a patient has to undergo a much more intensive therapy to be rid of it. That’s why it’s important to keep to regular dental checkups, remembering that your dentist can detect a Gingivitis infection before its symptoms are apparent. And keep to a quality oral care routine. Remember, the practice of prevention is the best cure for gum disease.