How to recognize and treat Gingivitis? Expert tips from Edent Dentistry
Gingivitis is a common issue that can occur in both adults and children. This condition, also known as gingivitis, is the first stage of more advanced periodontal problems, such as periodontitis. Early detection of symptoms and prompt treatment are essential. In this article, Edent Dentistry specialists will discuss how to recognize gingivitis, its potential causes, and effective treatment methods.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissue surrounding the teeth. The most common cause of this disease is the accumulation of dental plaque, which, without proper oral hygiene, can turn into tartar. Dental plaque consists of bacteria that cause inflammation, leading to gum irritation, swelling, and redness.
Most common symptoms of Gingivitis:
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Pain or gum sensitivity
- Bad breath
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
If you experience these symptoms, it is advisable to visit a dentist as soon as possible to prevent the development of more severe conditions.
What causes Gingivitis?
The main causes of gingivitis are often related to poor oral hygiene. When we don’t brush our teeth regularly or thoroughly, bacteria in the mouth multiply and accumulate on the tooth surface and along the gum line. Other causes include:
- Smoking – significantly increases the risk of gum disease
- Poor diet – low in vitamins, especially vitamin C, which promotes inflammation
- Stress – weakens the immune system, which can increase susceptibility to gum infections
- Hormonal changes – especially in women (pregnancy, menstruation, menopause) can affect gum health
- Systemic diseases like diabetes – may increase the risk of gingivitis
Treatment of gingivitis at Edent Dentistry
At Edent Dentistry, gingivitis treatment is comprehensive and tailored to each patient’s individual needs. It includes both hygiene procedures and periodontal treatment in more advanced cases.
1. Professional hygiene
The basis of gingivitis treatment is scaling and sandblasting. These procedures effectively remove bacterial plaque and tartar, the main causes of inflammation. These treatments help restore gum health and reduce their sensitivity to irritation.
2. Periodontal treatment
If gingivitis is not treated early enough, periodontitis can develop. In such cases, more advanced treatment is needed, including periodontal procedures like open and closed curettage. At Edent Dentistry, our specialists perform these procedures with precision to minimize complications.
3. Individual treatment plan
Each case of gingivitis is different, which is why our specialists create personalized treatment plans based on the patient’s needs. During the visit, we discuss how to prevent a recurrence of inflammation and what measures to take to maintain healthy gums.
How to prevent gingivitis? Expert tips
Preventing gingivitis is possible with proper oral hygiene and regular checkups. Here are some key rules to help maintain healthy gums:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day – use fluoride toothpaste to effectively remove plaque and strengthen enamel.
- Use dental floss – daily flossing helps remove food particles and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas.
- Use mouthwash – antibacterial rinses help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth.
- Regular dental visits – see your dentist every six months to monitor gum and teeth health and perform professional hygiene as needed.
- Avoid smoking – smoking not only increases the risk of gum disease but also weakens the body’s ability to fight infections.
Why treat gingivitis?
Untreated gingivitis can lead to serious health problems, such as:
- Periodontitis – an advanced stage of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
- Bone loss – advanced gingivitis can weaken the jawbone, which may prevent future implant treatment.
- Health issues – studies show that gum disease may be linked to serious systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and even increased risk of stroke.
Therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor gum health and respond to the first signs of inflammation.
FAQ
1. Can gingivitis be completely cured?
Yes, gingivitis is fully reversible if diagnosed early and treated properly.
2. How often should I have oral hygiene procedures?
At Edent Dentistry, we recommend professional hygiene (scaling and sandblasting) every six months to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.
3. Can gingivitis occur in children?
Yes, gingivitis can occur at any age, including in children, especially if they do not maintain proper oral hygiene.
4. What treatments are used for advanced periodontitis?
In advanced cases of periodontitis, we use periodontal treatments, such as curettage or surgical procedures, aimed at regenerating periodontal tissues.
5. What products are best for oral hygiene to prevent gingivitis?
It is best to use fluoride toothpaste, antibacterial mouthwash, and soft toothbrushes that are gentle on the gums.