Gingivitis is caused by the inflammation of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It is a very common gum disease that differs in severity and is often a result of poor dental hygiene. Symptoms often include bleeding of the gums during brushing or flossing and bad breath. Plaque buildup at the gum line is the direct cause of gingivitis and if left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis and might result in permanent damage to the teeth and jaw.
Since gingivitis can be a mild form of gum disease, individuals might not be aware that they have the condition. However, proper oral care and habits, regular brushing and flossing, and having dental checkups can help prevent gingivitis. Gingivitis is not the same as periodontitis - gingivitis is inflammation of the gums around the teeth while periodontitis involves an inflamed or infected bone below the gums - although there are instances when an individual can be affected by both.
Symptoms and signs of gingivitis:
Scheduling an appointment with a dentist if there are any symptoms or signs of gingivitis can help prevent it and other more serious dental problems. Dentists recommend regular checkups to determine early signs of gingivitis and treat them before it gets worse.
Some of the symptoms and signs of gingivitis are: swollen, tender gums; Color of gums change from healthy pink to red; receding gums; gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing; persistent bad breath; deep pockets formation between teeth and gums; and changes in the way teeth or partial dentures fit in.
Causes of gingivitis:
- Aggressive tooth brushing
- Blood disorders like leukemia
- Deficiency in vitamins especially Vitamin C
- Dry mouth
- Formation of plaque which will cause cavity and gum infection
- Hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause) which makes the blood tissues within the gums to be more susceptible to bacterial infection
- Incorrect dental prosthetis
- Medications which will cause gum disease like anti-seizure drugs
- Mouth breathing that leaves the gums unprotected and may cause irritation and inflammation
- Mouth breathing that leaves the gums unprotected and may cause irritation and inflammation
- Overlapping, crooked, or rotated teeth
- Poor dental hygiene
- Poor nutrition and eating habits that increase plaque formation
- Stress that can cause damage to the immune system
- Smoking or use of tobacco products
- Reaction to oral contraceptives
- Weakened circulation due to diabetes mellitus which affects the ability of the gums to heal
Diagnosis:
Based on the signs and symptoms you show or tell your dentist, he or she will usually examine the gums for any swelling, bleeding, and also checking the teeth for movement and any sensitivity. To be ready to determine the severity of the disease, a periodontal probe (a tiny ruler that's inserted into teeth pockets) is used - the deeper the pockets, the more serious the disease. Your bite will also be assessed and full mouth X-rays will be done to determine the level of the underlying bone and if any bone is lost.
your dentist may also recommend a medical evaluation to determine any health problems if the cause of the gingivitis is still not clear.
Treatment of gingivitis:
The main objective of periodontal treatment is to prevent any infection that might be present and to stop the spreading of the disease. If the cause of gingivitis is not detected in your teeth, gums, or tongue, a medical checkup and evaluation will be recommended by your dentist for any underlying health issues.
Several treatment options include professional treatment, home care, and in additional severe cases, surgery for restoration of supportive tissues.
Professional or non-surgery treatment includes an initial evaluation to determine the cause of gingivitis; scaling or removal of plaque and tartar from below the gum line; repair of any dental restorations that could be hindering adequate dental hygiene; prescribing antibiotics to prevent any infection; follow-up checkups and cleanings; recommendation of dental cleaning techniques to remove plaque and tartar; and thorough instruction on effective brushing and flossing procedures.
Follow-up home care is recommended after the treatment to reduce the risk of further infection and damage to the teeth and gums. These involve brushing the teeth at least two times a day, regular flossing, using antiseptic mouth wash or rinse to clear away the bacteria, and following a healthy diet.
Home remedies for gingivitis:
Proper oral care at home is important in the prevention of gingivitis, Some of the preventive measures you can do at home are:
- Apply tea bag on the infected area to relieve swelling and infection
- Avoid stress for it can compromise your immune system, making it harder to fight off bacteria that can cause infection
- Brushing the teeth at least 2 times a day or after every meal
- Cleaning between the teeth using an inter-dental cleaner such as a dental pick or dental stick
- Drink cranberry juice to prevent the bacteria from sticking to your teeth
- Eat vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, grapes, papaya, etc.
- Increase vitamin D intake (this vitamin has anti-inflammatory properties)
- Flossing daily
- Quit smoking or using any tobacco products
- Regular dental checkups and cleaning
- Rub some honey on the affected area after brushing your teeth
- Swish a sip of sea salt solution (small amount of sea salt dissolved in warm water) in your mouth for about 30 seconds to reduce swollen gums and prevent infection
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it at least every 3-4 months
- Using an electric toothbrush can be more effective for removing tartar and plaque build-up
- Using antiseptic mouth wash or rinse recommended by your dentist
Complications:
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can spread to the underlying tissues and bone that can lead to periodontitis which is a severe gum infection that can cause tooth loss. Further complications might result in abscess of the gums or jawbones and trench mouth. Gingivitis and periodontitis can also lead to other serious health problems such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, premature births, respiratory diseases, and stroke.
Prevention of gingivitis:
Gum disease can be prevented by monitoring plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth. Proper oral hygiene and regular checkups with your dentist will help you reduce the risk of having gingivitis. Other ways you can prevent gingivitis include: avoiding alcohol, smoking, and other forms of tobacco, brushing and flossing to remove plaque and debris and control tartar buildup, drinking plenty of water to increase the production of saliva, eating proper nutrition for your jawbone and teeth, intake of vitamin C, and using an antibacterial mouth rinse.
Summary:
Gingivitis simply means that your gums are swollen and infected. But if it is not treated immediately, it can lead to more severe conditions like periodontitis. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup which can result from poor dental hygiene. The best way to prevent gingivitis is through proper oral care like brushing and flossing daily and seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Doing ALL these can increase your chances of preventing the damage that gingivitis might cause which can lead to other serious health issues.