What Is Gingivitis?

Inflammation of the gums, or gingiva, is known as gingivitis. When plaque builds up around the teeth, it can irritate the gums and cause inflammation. 

Gingivitis can also be the result of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, certain illnesses, or might even be a reaction to dentures. 

In this article, our team at Stonegate Family Dentistry in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, discusses the causes and symptoms of gingivitis and the ways you can treat and prevent it.

Gingivitis Causes

• The primary cause of gingivitis is plaque buildup due to improper oral hygiene. The bacteria in the mouth interact with the sugar and starch from foods to produce a biofilm called plaque that attaches itself to the teeth. 
• If not cleaned in its early stages, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by professional cleaning. Irritation due to the tartar buildup can cause the gums to get inflamed.
• Some other factors, both internal and external, that can contribute to gingivitis are:
• Hormonal activity in puberty, during menstrual cycles, menopause, or pregnancy, can render gum sensitivity.
• Diseases such as cancer, HIV, and diabetes can increase the risk of gum inflammation.
• Being on certain medications can cause dry mouth, leading to increased bacteria accumulation. 
• Smoking increases the risk of gingivitis.
• Gum inflammation is more common as you age.
• A family history of gum issues can increase your risk for the same.

The Symptoms 

• A mild case of gingivitis can only be detected by a dentist on an X-ray or with the help of instruments that look for pockets between the gum and the teeth.
• However, the following symptoms should put you on your guard:
• Yellowish discoloration of the teeth
• Gums that look puffy and are tender or receding
• Bleeding while brushing or flossing teeth
• Bad breath that prevails for a longer period

Gingivitis Treatment and Prevention

If diagnosed in its early stages, gingivitis can be reversed at home by adopting the correct measures for oral hygiene.

However, professional cleaning is required to remove tartar from the teeth. Scaling, a deep cleaning method to remove calculi will be performed, and then the teeth will be polished and treated with fluoride to remove tartar. If issues like crooked teeth hinder proper cleaning, those should also be taken care of.

To learn more about gingivitis and how to prevent and treat it, call Stonegate Family Dentistry at (615) 624-6919 or visit us at 206 A N Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.