Today we are talking about something that we see which many patients don't realize they have or recognize the beginning stages of: Gingivitis. According to Mayo Clinic, "Gingivitis — an inflammation of the gums — is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque - the soft, sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums. If the plaque is not removed by daily brushing and flossing, it produces toxins (poisons) that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. At this early stage in gum disease, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected. Left untreated, however, gingivitis can become periodontitis and cause permanent damage to your teeth and jaw(Mayoclinic.com)."
If you are wondering, what are the signs of Gingivitis and how can I recognize it, you are in luck! "Classic signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush. Another sign of gum disease is gums that have receded or pulled away from your teeth, giving your teeth an elongated appearance. Gum disease can cause pockets to form between the teeth and gums, where plaque and food debris collect. Some people may experience recurring bad breath or a bad taste in their mouth, even if the disease is not advanced (MayoClinic.com)."
This may seem overwhelming at first but the good news is that Gingivitis is totally preventable! That's right! You can help stop gingivitis before it starts by:
- Proper brushing and flossing to remove plaque and debris and control tartar buildup
- Eating right to ensure proper nutrition for your jawbone and teeth
- Avoiding cigarettes and other forms of tobacco
- And of course, scheduling regular checkups with your dentist!
Here at Germantown Dental Care we can help you keep your teeth and gums plaque-free and come up with a plan to stop Gingivitis before it fully develops.
To schedule your appointment today and have your gums looked at, visit: http://germantowndentalcare.com/
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