The term gingivitis is used to describe the inflammation of the gums in the mouth. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and the easiest stage to treat. Plaque is the cause of gingivitis, a colourless and sticky film created from bacteria that continuously forms on the gums and teeth. Daily brushing of your teeth and flossing will remove plaque. If you do not remove the plaque, it creates toxins that will irritate the tissue of the gums and gingivitis is created. If treated during the early stages, most damage can be reversed.
Signs of Gingivitis
Perhaps you are wondering if you are affected by gingivitis. Signs of the condition include swollen and red gums, as well as tenderness in the gums. It may also cause bleeding when you brush your teeth. The gums may have pulled away from your teeth or begun to recede, giving your teeth the appearance that they are elongated. Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can also be present.
Preventing Gingivitis
So how do you prevent gingivitis? First, you start with good oral hygiene. You want to brush your teeth and floss twice a day. You also want to have your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year to ensure that plaque that has hardened into calculus is removed before further aggravating your gums. Work on eating well to promote healthy teeth and bones. Avoid any forms of tobacco, including cigarettes. All of this combined will contribute to improved dental health.
At Regent Dental, patients have access to quality dental care, including cleanings and services to prevent gingivitis. Schedule regular appointments so teeth can be cleaned and checked for any issues.
