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If you haven’t been keeping up with brushing, flossing, or regular dental cleanings, you might be at risk for gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and some professional care from your team at Altoona Dental.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the initial stage of periodontal (gum) disease. Common symptoms include red, swollen, and tender gums, sensitivity to heat or cold, gums that bleed easily, and persistent bad breath. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Who is at Risk for Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is widespread, affecting over half of adults over the age of 30.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease, including:
- Gender: Males are more likely to develop gum disease, possibly due to hormonal factors or a tendency to visit the dentist less frequently.
- Socioeconomic Status: Those living in poverty or with lower levels of education are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, likely due to limited access to dental care.
- Smoking: Tobacco use weakens the body’s ability to fight infection, making smokers more susceptible to gum disease.
What Causes Gingivitis?
Without proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque can irritate your gums, leading to inflammation and infection.
Additional risk factors for gingivitis include:
- Crooked Teeth: Misaligned teeth can be difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of plaque buildup.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can exacerbate gum irritation.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy can cause hormonal fluctuations that make gums more vulnerable to gingivitis.
- Dry Mouth: A lack of saliva can contribute to plaque buildup and gum irritation.
- Medications and Medical Conditions: Certain medications and conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of gum disease.
How is Gingivitis Treated?
The first step in treating gingivitis is a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to encourage the gum tissue to heal. This treatment is similar to a routine dental cleaning but is more thorough to address gum disease.
In addition to professional treatment, maintaining good daily oral hygiene habits—such as brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash—is essential for managing and preventing gingivitis. If you notice any signs of gingivitis, please schedule an appointment with your Altoona, IA dentist as soon as possible. Our team at Altoona Dental will evaluate your condition and help restore your healthy smile.
We invite you to schedule your routine dental examination and cleaning at our office. Our preventive services are designed to keep your smile healthy and bright. Trust our dedicated team to provide the highest level of care and service. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!