Gingivitis Treatment: Why You Should Not Overlook It?

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a common gum issue that develops due to plaque and bacteria on the gum line. Not brushing and flossing properly deposits bacteria and plaque on the gum line. This causes swelling, tenderness, and redness of the gums. If left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis.

What Causes Gingivitis?

Like every other dental problem, gingivitis is caused by a lack of oral hygiene. When you eat too many sweets and salty snacks, drink sugary beverages, and do not brush properly, a biofilm—plaque — develops on your teeth. 

Over time, it hardens and turns into calculus, a hard substance that deposits on your gum line. You need a dental appointment to get your calculus cleaned by a professional. Brushing cannot remove calculus. 

If you don’t see a dentist regularly, the calculus will only get harder and thicker, resulting in gum inflammation.

Other Causes of Gum Infection

There are  also some other causes of gum infection, which are discussed here. 

• Changes in Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as puberty, menopause, and pregnancy, can adversely affect your gums.
• Old Age: As you get older, many diseases and health issues surround you, and gum infection is one of them.
• Smoking: People who smoke have a higher possibility of developing a trench mouth or gum infection.
• Heredity: Gum infection can also be developed due to family history. In this case, you must book regular dental checkups to stay ahead of your dental problems.

Professional Dental Cleaning

The best way to prevent and treat gingivitis is to book a six-month appointment with us so that we can clean your teeth. Professional cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar so your gums can breathe and you can enjoy good oral health.

Scaling and Rooting

For more advanced cases of gingivitis or when tartar buildup is significant, your dentist may perform scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the root surfaces to promote gum healing.

Flap Surgery

If you have gum hyperplasia, flap surgery is required. In hyperplasia, your gum tissues start growing abnormally, covering a significant portion of teeth. It requires surgery to remove the flap.

Medications

If the problem is less severe, the issue can be corrected through antibiotics.

Complications of Gingivitis

If you ignore the bleeding and swollen gums long enough, it can lead to complications mentioned below:

• Periodontitis: Periodontitis is a complication that leads to bone and tooth loss.
• Trench Mouth: Trench mouth is an advanced form of gum infection in which patients develop painful ulcers, bleeding, and a foul odor.
• Gum Abscess: A pus-filled sac that forms in the gums due to infection, causing pain, swelling, and tenderness.

Preventing Gingivitis

Prevention is always better than cure, so you must read the tips below carefully and aim to prevent gingivitis at all:

• Maintaining good oral health through regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
• Book regular dental appointments for professional cleaning to help avoid gum infection.
• Avoid bad habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Why Choose Peace of Mind Dental Studio?

Gingivitis is a common gum disease that can be effectively treated and prevented with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. To maintain good oral health, you must visit the best dentistry, Peace of Mind Dental Studio Chandler, Arizona, where we aim to provide quality dental care. Our expert, Dr. Silverman, is here to offer the best advice and dental services to keep your dental health in shape.

Book an appointment today!

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