Gingivitis is a reversible condition if you see your dentist for a cleaning and practice good oral hygiene. However, if gingivitis is left untreated it can worsen into periodontitis (loss of bone around teeth) and can cause other health problems.
Bacteria collect on your teeth in a sticky film called plaque. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar and irritates the gum tissue. Gums become red and swollen, and bleed easily.
Symptoms
The gingiva becomes irritated and swollen when bacteria in plaque, which hardens into tartar, build up on teeth. The irritation can lead to the destruction of gum tissue, causing tooth and bone loss.
When the condition is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. At this stage, gum tissue and bone begin to break down forming bigger spaces (called pockets) between teeth and the surrounding tissue/bone. Toxins released by the bacteria in these pockets cause a chronic inflammatory response where the body turns on itself, breaking down gum tissue and bone. Teeth can become loose and may need to be removed.
Poor oral hygiene is the main cause of gingivitis, but there are several other contributing factors. Hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation or pregnancy can make gums more sensitive. Some medicines reduce saliva production, including those used to treat diabetes, leukemia or HIV/AIDS. Poor nutrition, including not getting enough vitamin C can also increase the risk of gingivitis.
Diagnosis
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress into periodontitis resulting in loss of the teeth and bone damage. Gingivitis is reversible in most cases with proper oral hygiene including teeth cleanings, daily flossing and regular dental checkups.
Diagnosis is based on the appearance of the gums, teeth and tongue. In addition, the dentist will take your medical history to see if any health problems may be contributing to the symptoms.
Risk factors for gingivitis include poor maintenance of oral hygiene, medications (such as Dilantin, an epilepsy drug), hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy and menstruation), vitamin deficiencies (scurvy), crooked teeth and smoking. Age is also a factor as gingivitis becomes more common with advancing age. Gingivitis is typically painless but can cause sensitivity, bleeding and bad breath. Your dentist will evaluate your gums and teeth to detect any signs of gingivitis and recommend a treatment plan. He or she may perform a routine professional cleaning to remove the plaque, tartar and staining that contribute to gingivitis.
Treatment
Gingivitis is usually easy to treat with a combination of at-home care and visits to a dentist for more thorough cleanings. Prompt treatment usually reverses symptoms and prevents them from leading to more serious gum disease and tooth loss. During these visits, your teeth and gums will be cleaned to remove any accumulated plaque or tartar. Rough spots on your teeth and bone may also be smoothed to limit areas where bacteria can grow.
Your gingiva (gums) attach to your teeth in a small space known as a sulcus. This creates a small opening where food can become trapped along with bacteria and other debris that cause infection.
Your doctor may recommend that you follow a specific dental treatment plan for your condition. This often involves oral hygiene instructions that you can perform at home, such as brushing and flossing, and in-office treatments like scaling and root planing. These procedures are usually done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
Prevention
Everybody has bacteria in their mouths but gingivitis is when these bacteria create a biofilm that irritates the gums and causes inflammation. Gingivitis is not serious and can be reversed as long as it is caught early and does not damage the teeth, gums or bones.
The best way to prevent gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene, brushing twice a day using a soft bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste containing fluoride. Flossing daily is also essential. Your dentist or dental hygienist can show you the correct technique for brushing and flossing. Mouth rinses can be helpful but are no substitute for brushing and flossing. Having your teeth professionally cleaned at least every 6 months is recommended.
Drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy diet is important for prevention as well. In addition, chewing unsweetened green tea or xylitol gum has been shown to reduce plaque and gingivitis inflammation. It is important to note that gingivitis does not always cause symptoms, and many people may be unaware that they have it.