It’s no secret that maintaining a healthy smile is an important part of enjoying overall wellness. Many health conditions have been linked to poor oral hygiene, and a good dental routine can go a long way toward keeping your general health on track. One of the most common — but preventable — issues that can affect the smile is gingivitis. But what is it exactly? And what can you do to keep it at bay?
Gum disease is caused when plaque is left to build up on the teeth and gums, leading to infection of the gum tissues. While gum disease, also known as periodontitis, can cause serious issues, including receding gums and tooth loss, gingivitis is the very first stage of infection. Gingivitis can be very difficult to detect because it doesn’t always cause symptoms, which is why it is so important to see your dentist for regular check-ups and cleans.
Although gingivitis often goes unnoticed, there are a few warning signs to look out for. If you have noticed that your gums are red, swollen, or tender, or that they bleed easily (especially when you brush or floss your teeth), you may have gingivitis. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. In many cases, gingivitis can be reversed and further damage can be prevented if the condition is caught early.
Plaque, a sticky substance that builds up on the teeth and along the gum line, is the most common cause of gingivitis. When it is left to accumulate on the surface of the teeth and gums, plaque leads to gum irritation, inflammation, and infection. To remove plaque and prevent gingivitis, it is important to brush and floss regularly. It is advisable that you brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time and that you floss once a day. This will help get rid of food particles and other debris that get stuck in your teeth throughout the day.
While plaque is the main cause of gingivitis, there are a few other factors that can increase your risk of gum irritation. These include smoking and other forms of tobacco use, diabetes, and certain medications. Pregnancy also increases the risk of gingivitis because of the hormonal changes that occur during this time.
Unfortunately, gingivitis — and gum disease in its more advanced stages — is fairly common. Many people are unaware that they have the condition, as it is often painless. For this reason, it’s a good idea to see your dentist regularly. Your dentist will be able to identify any potential problems and recommend a suitable treatment before they worsen. If left untreated, gingivitis can worsen and have a detrimental effect on the condition and appearance of your smile. The good news is that regular dental visits, along with proper oral hygiene and a balanced diet, can often prevent gum disease and contribute towards a healthy smile.
At The Smile Speciality Dental Group, we love helping our patients maintain healthy smiles, which is why we offer a range of preventative dentistry services. We encourage our patients to come in and see us for regular check-ups and cleanings so that we can identify and treat any of the early signs of gum disease.
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