Gingivitis is a mild, early sign of greater periodontal disease, which can threaten to cause potentially permanent damage to the gums, ligaments, and tooth sockets of the jaw. It is usually the result of poor tooth and gum care and can be prevented with the use of oral antiseptic, brushing, and other standard measures of oral care.
Dental plaque, as most of us may know, is a buildup of sticky, off-white material on the surface of the teeth. As this material is most frequently composed of food particles, it tends to attract bacteria, which produce toxins unhealthy to the gums and which will, with time, deteriorate teeth as well. Plaque also tends to calcify, or harden, and turn into what is commonly called “tartar”, a hard, dark substance that works its way into the base of the tooth near the gums, further irritating them. Bacterial toxins are the most prominent cause of tooth decay, and lead to cavities, as well.
Gingivitis usually results from an excessive buildup of this plaque, and is evidenced by the notable redness, irritation, and easy bleeding of the gums, which are weakened by the presence of these bacterial toxins. Sometimes it can also be the result of physical trauma to the gums, such as excessive oral care (brushing, flossing). Gingivitis is, however, a rather mild expression of gum disease, and can escalate into conditions such as periodontitis, which involves the spread of the gum inflammation to the more basic structures of the teeth, like the periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone (tooth sockets). As one might suspect, severe periodontitis can result in tooth loss, even without the presence of cavities.
The specific symptoms of gingivitis include sores that appear in the mouth or on the gums, swollen or red/purplish gums, easy bleeding of the gums (despite gentle brushing), and particular tenderness or shiny appearance of the gums.
Brushing regularly while taking secondary measures toward good oral hygiene, like flossing or the use of an oral antiseptic, can also help prevent gingivitis and other oral diseases. It is recommended that one brush thoroughly twice each day and floss at least once to strengthen the gums through stimulation and to remove the plaque that can cause them harm. Oral antiseptics, while ineffective at removing plaque matter, kill the bacteria present in plaque and help to prevent tooth decay in conjunction with a proper brushing routine.
Treatment is essentially limited to the reduction of the factors that lead to the condition, and a thorough tooth cleaning is especially necessary to remove plaque and tartar around the teeth. Prevention against further inflammation must be taken and consists of maintaining good habits of oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing. If misaligned teeth, dental hardware, or other conditions may have contributed to the buildup of plaque and thus the condition of gingivitis, it may be suggested by your dentist that these factors be resolved as well, in order to prevent the occurrence of further inflammation. Consult a physician before taking any dental health measures beyond those normally suggested, such as regular flossing and brushing.
