Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is a common dental problem. Unfortunately, people often take it lightly and do not consult a dentist on time. But doing so can cause more serious oral health issues like bone loss, tooth loss, abscesses, and periodontitis. Are you wondering what the causes and symptoms of gingivitis are? If yes, keep reading to find out!
Causes of Gingivitis
There is a tiny space between gums and teeth called the sulcus. In this space, food particles often get stuck, giving rise to the growth of bacteria. This promotes the rise of plaque in the mouth. If the plaque starts growing along or below the gum line, gingivitis is caused.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
At times there are no symptoms at all. But some of the common signs that most people see when suffering from gingivitis are:
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Bad breath
- Bleeding from gums
- Loose and sensitive teeth
- Detaches gums from teeth
- Detached partial dentures
The last two symptoms show that the gum infection has started spreading badly and needs treatment immediately. This is the time to book your appointment with the dentist. Even if you see the early signs of gum infection, visiting a dentist will be good. It will ensure the infection gets cured before causing much harm to your oral health.
Treatment of Gingivitis
Some of the most common gingivitis treatments include scaling, root planing, and lasers. With the help of scaling, the dentist removes the tartar. Root planing involves the removal of tartar from rough surfaces of the root. If the dentist carries out the treatment successfully, then your teeth will reattach to the gums effectively. However, the treatment alone cannot reattach the gums to teeth at times. To make sure it works, you need to follow medications and diet as prescribed by the dentist.
Medications usually include antiseptic mouthwash, oral antibiotics, timed-release antiseptic chips, and so on. Ensure you do not take any extra medicines that the doctor does not prescribe. In doing so, you can invite trouble.
To prevent gum diseases, make sure you visit the dentist regularly. Also, brush and floss daily. Good oral hygiene will ensure you do not suffer from gingivitis or other dental health issues. Also, eat a balanced diet every day to stay healthy.
Book your appointment today and get cleaner and brighter teeth. Dr. Jeanne V. Devi, DDS, and her team of dental assistants are here to provide you with the best dental care solutions. Call us at (626) 795-2544 or visit our website for more details. We are located at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101.
