WHAT IS GINGIVITIS?
Gingivitis, signs and treatment. The stages of gum disease & importance of regular dental visits
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. It occurs as a result of plaque, a clear sticky film, and bacteria accumulating on your teeth.
The main reason you need to brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly is because you want to avoid plaque build up and prevent gingivitis. Accumulated plaque on your teeth, left untreated, eventually causes plaque to harden resulting in tartar, a yellowish or brown coloured substance, which can only be removed by professionals in a dental clinic.
EARLY SIGNS OF GINGIVITIS
Early signs may include puffy gums, change in colour of your gums, bad breath, receding or soft gums and traces of blood on your toothbrush.
PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR GINGIVITIS
A key factor in the prevention of gingivitis is early detection. If diagnosed early, and treatment is prompt, gingivitis can be successfully reversed.
Gum therapy, also known as scaling, will remove plaque and tartar build up. In severe cases of gingivitis the first treatment may be uncomfortable. However, with regular dental visits and the use of anesthetics, scaling gets easier with each visit.
TIPS TO HELP PREVENT GINGIVITIS
Brush your teeth twice a day, preferably with an electric toothbrush because it removes more plaque than with manual brushing.
Use mouthwash to reduce bacteria build up
Visit your dentist regularly for scaling and regular check ups.