Learn About Gingivitis
Gingivitis is characterized by inflammation of the gums, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It’s usually recognized as one of the first stages of gum disease that is also one of the easiest to treat. Gingivitis is the direct descendent of plaque when it affects the gums. Plaque is a colorless film of bacteria that covers the gums and teeth, and if it is not regularly removed through flossing and brushing, it can often begin to produce a number of different toxins that can continuously irritate gum tissues.
If gingivitis remains untreated, it can become known as periodontitis, which can continue to cause ongoing damage to the jaw as well as your teeth.
Some of the early signs and symptoms of gingivitis:
The first signs and symptoms of gingivitis often include tender gums which are swollen and red. You may often find that you experience irritation when you brush your teeth or that your gums will regularly bleed when you brush and floss. A sign of early stages of gum disease can also be when you’re gums begin to recede or pull away from your teeth. When your teeth start to have an elongated appearance, this can be a sign of severe gingivitis or gum disease. Gum disease often occurs between the teeth and gums where bacteria and plaque continue to collect.
Other symptoms that are commonly experienced are recurring bad taste in your mouth as well as regular bad breath. If you recognize any of these symptoms is extremely important that you contact a dental professional immediately as gingivitis is something that can be reversed if it’s caught early.
Is it possible to prevent gingivitis:
In order to prevent gingivitis, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene. Routine dental checkups, brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day can prevent gingivitis. Regular appointments for cleaning are not something that should be missed.
You can also prevent gingivitis before it develops, by making regular dental appointments at least every six months.
Quitting smoking can also be helpful in the prevention of gingivitis. Tobacco can cause tartar as well as other forms of oral bacteria.
Proper nutrition is also important in preventing gingivitis and gum disease. Making that you are eating a well-balanced diet can improve the overall health of your jawbone and your teeth.
