Beginning Stages of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common mouth infection that can be caused by several factors, including poor oral hygiene and smoking. Not only does it cause discomfort in the mouth, but it also puts you at risk for other serious health problems such as tooth loss or even heart disease. So, what are the signs that you may have at the beginning stages of gingivitis? and how do you treat it?

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease. It occurs due to bacterial infection in the gums. Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that is constantly building up on the teeth. These bacteria break down food debris (carbohydrates) and produce acids that irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed.

The beginning stages of gingivitis are mild and reversible with proper treatment. However, if left untreated, the infection can spread to the tooth-supporting tissues, causing periodontitis, a more advanced form of periodontal disease.

You can read more about what bacteria cause gingivitis.

Causes and risk factors for gingivitis
Poor oral hygiene and smoking increase the risk of gingivitis.

Causes & Risk Factors for Gingivitis

Several factors can put you at risk of developing the beginning stages of gingivitis. These include:

  • Poor oral hygiene.
  • Smoking increases the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. Also, smoking can make your teeth yellow.
  • Dry mouth condition.
  • Changes in the hormones during pregnancy (pregnancy gingivitis) and menopause.
  • Eating foods that are high in carbohydrates or sugars.
  • A vitamin deficiency, especially Vitamin C & D.
  • Broken tooth fillings.
  • Braces or other orthodontic treatment.
  • Crowded teeth.
  • Wearing dentures.
  • Some medications such as steroids, certain anti-seizure medications, and high blood pressure medications.
  • Medical conditions and diseases such as diabetes, viral, and fungal infections.

How to Spot the Beginning Stages of Gingivitis?

The beginning stages of gingivitis have the following signs and symptoms:

  • Red, swollen gums: healthy gums are firm and pink. When infected, the gums become red or swollen.
  • Bleeding gums: your gums may bleed while brushing, flossing, or eating certain foods such as apples.
  • Gums are tender to touch: your gums may feel sensitive when you touch them.
  • Bad breath: it can also indicate the beginning stages of gingivitis. This is because bacteria in the mouth produce an odor when they break down food debris.
  • Mild gum recession: your teeth may appear longer than usual because the gums begin to pull away from the teeth. Gum recession may lead to sensitive teeth because of the exposed tooth roots.

You can read more about the differences between gingivitis vs healthy gums.

Spot the Beginning Stages of Gingivitis
Spot and treat the beginning stage of gingivitis to prevent periodontitis.

What Happens If You Ignore The Beginning Stages of Gingivitis?

Ignoring the beginning stages of gingivitis can result in more severe forms of periodontal disease such as periodontitis, an inflammation of the tissues that support your teeth. With this condition, the infection spreads to the tooth-supporting tissues, causing damage to the periodontal ligaments and bone loss around the teeth. Learn more about the differences between gingivitis vs periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause severe symptoms such as:

  • Pain with chewing.
  • Persistent bad breath.
  • Bad taste in the mouth.
  • Periodontal pockets.
  • Tooth sensitivity.
  • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down.
  • Development of spaces between your teeth.
  • Loose teeth and tooth loss.

Read more about “Is gingivitis contagious through kissing?”.

Effects of Periodontal Disease on Overall Health

Ignoring the beginning stages of gingivitis can cause severe health problems. The bacteria in the mouth can travel to the bloodstream and get into the heart, lungs, and other parts of the body.

Research shows that periodontal disease increases the risk of developing other serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and preterm births. It can also increase your chances of getting certain types of cancers.

Treatments to Reverse Beginning Stages of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a reversible condition. Once your dentist diagnoses the beginning stages of gingivitis, they will start the treatment immediately to reverse the condition and prevent further damage. The treatment usually includes:

  • Professional teeth cleaning: your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. They can also check for cavities, gum disease, and other problems in the mouth.
  • Home oral care: it is necessary to practice daily oral hygiene and remove plaque before it causes more damage. Home remedies for gingivitis include:
    • Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
    • Floss between your teeth at least once daily to remove plaque and food debris.
    • Use a mouthwash to help remove bacteria in the mouth.
    • Eat a healthy diet high in vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients.
    • Limit sugary foods and drinks.
    • Quit smoking or smoke in moderation.
    • Visit your dentist every 6 months for checkups.

Beginning Stages of Gingivitis – Conclusion

If you have red swollen gums or gum bleeding, it may be time to see your dentist. The beginning stages of gingivitis can be reversed by visiting your dentist and practicing good oral hygiene habits. It is important to know the signs and symptoms so you don’t ignore them, which could lead to more serious forms of periodontal disease such as periodontitis. This condition can increase your chances for other health problems including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, preterm births, cancer, etc. Make sure that you brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss at least once each day, and visit your dentist every 6 months for checkups.

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