Gingivitis, Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the inflamed gum tissue around teeth, caused by bacteria found in dental plaque. People with normal, healthy gums will be firmly attached to the teeth and underlying bone. Healthy gums are pale pink in color (for light-skinned patients, to brown, gray in people with darker complexions). If you have gingivitis, your gums are inflamed, red and swollen. You may notice a pink color on your toothbrush following brushing. Your inflamed gums will bleed easily and may be tender. Mild gingivitis causes little pain and may not be noticed at first. If left untreated, gingivitis can become severe. Gingivitis, if untreated, can progresses to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.

Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that collects on your teeth, along the gum line and especially in crevices, rough spaces and broken fillings. When this sticky plaque is not removed by regular teeth cleaning, it hardens into a deposit called calculus, also called tartar. Calculus irritates the gums and gives bacteria more surfaces upon which to grow.

Gum disease and gingivitis are very common. Almost three in four adults over the age of 35 have some degree of gum disease. People with poorly controlled diabetes and pregnant women are especially at risk. People taking oral contraceptives or systemic steroids are at increased risk of gingivitis. Even certain prescription drugs can increase your risk for gingivitis.

What are the symptoms of Gingivitis?

You may notice blood on your toothbrush or notice that your gums are sensitive, red and swollen. Your gums may bleed easily.

How does my dentist tell if I have Gingivitis?

Your family dentist will examine and probe your gums and ask you if they bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. They will look for calculus deposits on your teeth and under the gum line.

Be sure to tell your dentist all the medications you are taking, in case some of them may be contributing to your gingivitis.

How long will my Gingivitis last?

Gingivitis can disappear within several days once teeth have been professionally cleaned by your dental hygienist followed by a program of frequent brushing and flossing at home.

How can I prevent Gingivitis?

Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bed, and floss your teeth at least once a day. Use a soft toothbrush and make sure the bristles reach the gum line when you brush. Have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months to one year to prevent plaque from becoming calculus and to remove any calculus that may have already formed.

If I already have Gingivitis, how can I prevent it from returning?

Gingivitis can be reversed if you remove bacteria from your teeth every day. Visit your dental office to receive a thorough cleaning every six months. This cleaning will include scaling (to remove the plaque below the gum line). Your dentist or dental hygienist can instruct you on the most effective methods of brushing and flossing. If gingivitis advances to periodontitis, more aggressive treatment may be necessary.