What is Gingivitis? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

What is Gingivitis? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Post by : Dr Jack Connan BDS GDC No. 277529 | 18 November 2020

Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums (gingiva). It commonly occurs because of films of bacteria that accumulate on the teeth – plaque; this type is called plaque-induced gingivitis. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth.

A patient with gingivitis will have red and puffy gums, and they will most likely bleed when they brush their teeth. Generally, gingivitis resolves with good oral hygiene – longer and more frequent brushing, as well as flossing. Some people find that using an antiseptic mouthwash, alongside proper tooth brushing and flossing also helps.

Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, commonly known as trench mouth, is a serious form of gingivitis which leads to painful, bleeding gums and ulcerations. This complication requires prompt medical attention.

In mild cases of gingivitis, patients may not even know they have it, because symptoms are mild. However, the condition should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.

What are the signs and symptoms of gingivitis?

A symptom is something the patient feels and describes, such as painful gums, while a sign is something everybody, including the doctor or nurse can see, such as swelling.

In mild cases of gingivitis there may be no discomfort or noticeable symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of gingivitis may include:

• Gums are bright red or purple
• Gums are tender, and sometimes painful to the touch
• Gums bleed easily when brushing teeth or flossing
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Inflammation (swollen gums)
• Receding gums
• Soft gums

What are the causes of gingivitis?

The accumulation of plaque and tartar

The most common cause of gingivitis is the accumulation of bacterial plaque between and around the teeth, which triggers an immune response, which in turn can eventually lead to the destruction of gingival tissue, and eventually further complications, including the loss of teeth.

Dental plaque is a biofilm that accumulates naturally on the teeth. It is usually formed by colonizing bacteria that are trying to stick to the smooth surface of a tooth. Some experts say that they might help protect the mouth from the colonization of harmful microorganisms. However, dental plaque can also cause tooth decay, and periodontal problems such as gingivitis and chronic periodontitis.

When plaque is not removed adequately, it causes an accumulation of calculus (tartar – it has a yellow color) at the base of the teeth, near the gums. Calculus is harder to remove, and can only be removed professionally.

Plaque and tartar eventually irritate the gums.

Can gingivitis be prevented?

A good dental hygiene routine is key to preventing gingivitis – a disruptive and painful oral condition. One can start by brushing teeth three times a day with either an electric or interdental toothbrush, as well as flossing regularly. It is recommended that you follow your dentist’s guidelines for the most effective dental hygiene routine. To remove any leftover plaque and food bits between teeth, dental floss is particularly important, and should be used before bedtime. Additionally, consider using a mouth rinse to help remove persistent tartar and plaque for even better oral health.

A regular dental cleaning at the dentist’s office is also recommended, which thoroughly removes all tartar.

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms from acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis, your dentist may recommend a treatment plan that includes antibiotics, painkillers, and particular types of mouthwash to treat your bleeding gums effectively.

If your gums bleed or concerned about bad breath please call our dentist on 0208 399 4311 to make an appointment to see our gentle hygienist

Why not visit our hygienist who is very gentle and caring. https://www.surbitondental.co.uk/contact/