What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis Treatment: The earliest stage of gum disease is called Gingivitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Gingivitis is a very common condition caused primarily by poor oral hygiene. Yet, even people who brush regularly may find themselves with the telltale signs of gingivitis. The symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums that bleed easily when teeth are brushed or flossed. Many people ignore these symptoms, and do not realize that gingivitis is the precursor of the more serious condition of periodontitis. However, it is extremely important to see your dentist if you are experiencing the signs of gingivitis, so that further disease progression is halted.

How Do You Get Gingivitis?

Gingivitis begins to form in the mouth when food debris is mixed with saliva and bacteria. This then turns to dental plaque if it is not washed away. If dental plaque isn’t removed by brushing and flossing, it can become mineralized and form tartar. This tartar is very hard, and only a professional dental cleaning can remove it. Plaque and tartar are harmful to the teeth because they contain bacteria that eats away at the enamel, dentine and irritate and erode the gums.

What is the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums around the teeth. When the bone below the gums gets inflamed and/or infected, it is called periodontitis and is the progression of disease in the mouth.

Why Should I Worry About Gingivitis?
When gingivitis is caught and treated early, the teeth and gums can recover easily. However, since gingivitis leads to periodontitis, it is important to address these problems early. When deep gum pockets form, (attachment loss) and collect plaque and bacteria, bone loss, infection and gum recession occur. Since it is very difficult to clean these pockets, , meaning teeth and jaw bone damage is a significant risk.  

Are you concerned about gingivitis and periodontitis? Do you have red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums? Please make a gingivitis treatment appointment with Belleview Dental by calling today. Early treatment will save teeth.