Gingivitis: What you need to know

Gingivitis is a disease that affects the areas around the teeth. The most common form of gingivitis is known to develop due to plaque that attaches itself to the outer surface of the teeth. When gingivitis is recognised and treated early on it can be reversed. 

 

Depending on how far it has progressed will determine the treatment, however in many cases; good oral hygiene can reverse the disease and return the teeth and gums to a healthy state. 

 

 

This oral health issue is often easy to recognise as it has a number of noticeable symptoms. The majority of symptoms are to do with the gums. The signs that you should keep an eye out for are: Swollen gums, colour change in gums (bright red or purple), bleeding gums and sensitive or painful gums. Sometimes bad breath can be an indicator if accompanied by any other symptoms. 

 

 

There are a few things that you can do yourself to treat gingivitis. Brushing twice a day can make a world of difference. Flossing after all meals and snacks will help reach the areas a brush cannot get to. Other things you can try are mouth washes or sugar free chewing gum. 

 

 

 

If the above methods are not enough to reverse the gingivitis then it is best to consult with your dentist. If you see an abundance of symptoms that you believe are beyond the help of routine oral health care, then make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. 

 

 

If gingivitis is left untreated it can lead to Periodontitis which in turn can harm the tissue and bone around the teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss.