What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Gingivitis?

The earliest form of gum disease is referred to as gingivitis. The condition occurs due to bacteria and plaque buildup on the teeth. It typically causes infection. With the help of a dentist, you can successfully manage the condition. However, if it is not treated, you can develop periodontitis. It is a more severe form of gum disease, entailing bone loss in the jaw.

What Is Gingivitis?

It is a form of periodontal disease that can be dental plaque-induced or non-plaque-induced. When plaque accumulates in your teeth, it irritates the gums leading to discoloration, pain, and inflammation, causing plaque-induced gingivitis. On the other hand, non-plaque-induced gingivitis is usually a result of a fungal, viral, or bacterial infection. It can lead to periodontitis if left untreated.

Signs and Symptoms of Gingivitis

Many people are often unaware that they have gingivitis because it rarely causes pain. About 75 percent of Americans experience some degree of the condition during their lifetime. So, it is important to understand what to look out for. Also, visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Some of the signs and symptoms of the disease include:

Bleeding gums - It especially occurs when you floss or brush your teeth.
Tooth sensitivity or pain - Your teeth become more exposed when gums pull away from them. It can cause sensitivity to cold and hot beverages and foods.
Puffy and red gums.
Alterations in how teeth align when you bite down or lose teeth that could indicate the onset of periodontitis.
Halitosis or bad breath that does not go away, even after brushing. It results from bad-smelling waste products produced by millions of bacteria in plaque.
Persistent sore gums.
Pain or tenderness when chewing food.

Gingivitis Risk Factors

The leading cause of the condition is plaque buildup. However, other factors may increase your risk of the disease. Pay more attention to your gum line and teeth if you notice some of the factors listed below.

Smoking - It is among the leading risk factors linked to gingivitis. Furthermore, it lowers your chances of successfully treating it.
Missing Some Plaque - After removing plaque from your teeth, you might miss the one around your gum line. For this reason, you should floss regularly and use good-quality toothpaste.
Hormonal Changes – This condition can be due to menopause, menstruation, puberty, or pregnancy. They can cause inflammation in your gums and increase sensitivity.
Stress - Your immune system weakens if you get stressed constantly. You are then compromising your ability to fight infections, including gingivitis.

Gingivitis Treatment

Gingivitis prevention and treatment entail the removal of plaque from your gums and teeth. Also, schedule regular dental appointments to help catch the disease early. Dentists will eliminate the tartar or plaque using special tools.

Conclusion

Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible. With the help of good oral hygiene, you can eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Also, seeing your dentist helps catch the disease early on.

To learn more about gingivitis, visit Perio Atlanta at our Atlanta, Georgia office. Call (404) 352-3123 to schedule an appointment today.