Gingivitis is a gum inflammation caused by bacteria. It is the main cause of bleeding gums. It is suffered by a lot of people who don’t take action against it. However, gingivitis could become a painful form of gum disease. Thankfully, a family dentist in Scottsdale, AZ, can treat this condition.
Common Causes of Gingivitis
The following are the common cause of gum disease or gingivitis:
- Plaque buildup. Plaque is the most common culprit for gingivitis. This thick bacterial film forms on your teeth and gums. Everyday brushing, flossing, and rinsing cannot remove plaque. When caught early, gum disease is reversible. It is important to practice good dental care habits and schedule dental checkups every six months.
- Smoking. Smoking interferes with your gum tissue cells’ normal function, increasing your mouth’s vulnerability to infections such as gum disease.
- Medications. Certain medications can have side effects that minimize the production and flow of your saliva, causing you to experience dry mouth. When this happens, bacteria can spread inside your mouth rapidly.
- Nutritional deficiencies. Vitamin C deficiency can be harmful to your gums. You could develop gum problems if you maintain a diet filled with sugar and carbs as well as low in vitamin C and water. Thus, ensure you consume lots of water and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin C.
- Crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can cause gum disease since misalignments can create more spaces that allow for plaque to build up and harm your gums and teeth.
How to Treat Gum Disease
Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease. It is characterized by bleeding, swollen, and red gums. At this point, treatment for the disease can prevent progression. Apart from taking your oral hygiene seriously at home, you must visit your dentist to know if you can benefit from laser gum therapy.
Prevention
Gum disease is preventable. Brushing your teeth at least twice every day will get rid of plaque-causing bacteria and tartar buildup. You need to brush your teeth after each meal for at least two minutes each time. Also, use mouthwash to kill any bacteria.
It is important to stay on top of dental visits. Your visits include teeth and gum cleanings. Your dentist can identify signs of gingivitis that you may not have noticed. Then, they can provide good advice or may begin a treatment plan, depending on your diagnosis.
When gingivitis has progressed to a more advanced stage, it becomes periodontitis, which is harder to treat. Thus, it is important to fight gingivitis as early as possible.
