What does it mean if you have gingivitis?
What does it mean if you have gingivitis?
Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums, or gingiva. It commonly occurs because a film of plaque, or bacteria, accumulates on the teeth. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease, but untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.
What causes gums to swell and bleed from gingivitis?
How to Cope With Gingivitis. Gingivitis is inflammation, swelling, and bleeding of the gum tissue caused by the bacteria that naturally coat the teeth. The bacteria form a sticky, whitish film on the teeth called plaque. If plaque isn’t thoroughly removed every day, the bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gums, making them red, swollen,…
Do you need to see a dentist for gingivitis?
In almost all cases, gingivitis, or gum disease, is caused by improper cleaning of the teeth and gums. If proper teeth care is not effective, you can use these techniques to treat gum disease at home. Yet, it’s always best to see a dentist for a proper evaluation and course of treatment. Know the symptoms of gingivitis.
Why do women get gingivitis more often than men?
Dentists say that people who are chronically stressed seem to develop gum problems more often than laid-back types. Hormones influence risk, too, which is why the condition often flares up in women who are pregnant or menstruating. Likewise, adolescents, whose hormones are going crazy, sometimes develop gingivitis.
How long does it take for gingivitis to go away?
However, if your gingivitis has gotten serious enough, it will likely take longer than ten days for it to go away. Depending on the severity, you might require a deep cleaning or even surgery.
What are the first signs of gingivitis?
Signs and symptoms of gingivitis include: Swollen or puffy gums. Dusky red or dark red gums. Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss. Bad breath. Receding gums. Tender gums.
Does having gingivitis mean you have gum disease?
That bleeding can be one of the first warning signs that you’ve got gum disease . The mild variety is called gingivitis. When you have that, only your gums are infected. If you don’t treat it, the infection can travel below your gum line and into your bone. Then it becomes a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis.
How do you stop gingivitis?
The best way to stop gingivitis from becoming a problem is to brush your teeth and gums thoroughly twice a day. It also helps to floss and use mouthwash.