Introduction
Gingivitis is a reversible form of gum disease classified as periodontal disease. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to a more serious condition known as periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.Periodontal diseases are caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, creating toxins that attack the gums. These gum diseases infect the supporting tissues of the teeth in the v-shaped crevice between tooth and gums known as the sulcus.
Gingivitis is considered a mild, early stage of periodontal disease, indicated by red, swollen gums that can bleed easily. Good dental hygiene consisting of daily brushing and flossing should eliminate the infection at this stage.
In more advanced stages of periodontal disease, the sulcus can develop into a pocket so deep the tooth is no longer supported and can loosen, fall out, or must be removed by a dentist.
Risk Factors
A number of risk factors increase the likelihood of developing periodontal disease. These include:- Certain types of medications and medical treatments
These can include steroids, some anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives. Some medications reduce the production of saliva which can affect gum tissue health. Others can stimulate abnormal gum tissue growth. - Diabetes or other systemic diseases
Cancer and HIV compromise the immune system, making the gums more vulnerable to infection. Diabetes affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar, which raises infection risk. - Ill-fitting bridges
Bridges that do not fit properly can hide food particles from proper cleansing, thereby encouraging the growth of plaque. - Fillings that have become defective
Defective fillings may trap bacteria and plaque, increasing the likelihood of periodontal disease. - Pregnancy and other hormonal changes
Puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation all make the gums more sensitive. - Tobacco smoking or chewing
These products present an obstacle to the gum tissue’s ability to repair itself. - Poor dental hygiene
Failure to brush and floss regularly will allow plaque to develop.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Warning signs of gingivitis include:- Bleeding gums during teeth brushing
- Irritated gums that are red, swollen, or tender
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- Changes in your bite
- Changes in the fit of partial dentures
Detection, Treatment and Prevention
Early detection of gingivitis is the best non-surgical way to reverse the disease. In an office visit, your dentist will examine:- Your gums for pockets between the gums and teeth
- Your teeth for looseness or sensitivity
- Your bite for changes in alignment
- Your jaw (using x-rays) to determine if the bone has deteriorated in any way.
Eating a balanced diet with limited between-meal snacks will also help to reduce the risk of gingivitis. Choose foods from the basic food groups: grains and cereals, fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry and fish, and dairy products.
Depending on the severity of the gum disease, treatments can vary from non-surgical bacterial-limiting therapies to surgeries that repair supporting tissues.
Finally, scheduling regular check ups with your dentist for professional cleanings and exams is an essential element of an effective dental hygiene regimen to avoid gum disease. Maintaining this regimen will ensure healthy – and long lasting – teeth and gums.
Above article written by: DentalInsurance.com
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