Understanding Gingivitis

When you brush and floss your teeth regularly, your gums will appear pink and healthy, but if you neglect proper oral hygiene, the bacteria in your mouth along with mucus will lead to the formation of plaque. This plaque can irritate your gums and cause inflammation. The inflammation of the gums is what we call “Gingivitis.”

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. At this stage, gingivitis is still reversible as long as you have routine oral care and regular professional cleaning done by your dentist. Gingivitis does not involve any tissue and bone loss, so you don’t have to undergo complicated surgical procedures. However, if you neglect any signs and symptoms of gingivitis, it could lead to periodontitis and at worst, tooth loss, which requires more complex treatment and surgeries due to gum tissue and bone loss.

The classic sign of gingivitis includes swollen, tender and red gums. Bleeding can also occur when you brush your teeth or touch your gums. Diabetes, aging, smoking, genetics, pregnancy, infection, certain medications are some of the factors that contribute to the occurrence of gingivitis. Avoid these risk factors to decrease the chance of having gingivitis.

Remember that without treatment gum disease can cause complications and affect other parts of your oral cavity. If you have questions about gingivitis, contact or visit us at Niagara Periodontics in St. Catharines.

-The Niagara Periodontics Team