Prevention and Treatment of Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria. Although the disease appears harmless in its early stages, if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as periodontitis and tooth loss. It is important to understand that any gum disease requires timely diagnosis and treatment by a dentist. In this article, we will tell you about the causes of gingivitis, its symptoms, prevention methods, and modern treatment options.
Causes of gingivitis
The main cause of gingivitis is the formation of dental plaque. It consists of food debris and bacteria that accumulate on the teeth and around the gum line. If plaque is not removed regularly, it gradually hardens and turns into tartar. Tartar irritates the gums and leads to inflammation.
Other factors increase the risk of gingivitis:
- Smoking and tobacco use. Nicotine disrupts the blood supply to the tissue, making the gums more susceptible to inflammation.
- Hormonal changes. Gingivitis is more common in pregnant women and during menopause.
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and a weakened immune system increase the risk of gingivitis.
- Poor oral hygiene: Irregular brushing and neglecting to floss promote the spread of bacteria.
Symptoms of gingivitis
In its early stages, the disease may be asymptomatic. However, patients most commonly notice:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or biting on hard foods
- Redness and swelling of the gum line
- Bad breath
- Discomfort or pain when chewing
It is important to understand that untreated inflammation can spread deeper, to the bone structures that support the teeth.
Preventing gingivitis
Prevention plays a key role, as it is always easier to avoid gingivitis rather than treat it.
Regular oral hygiene. It is essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a medium-hard toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss and oral irrigators help remove food debris from the spaces between teeth that can’t be reached with a toothbrush.
- Professional dental cleaning at the dentist. It is recommended to have plaque and tartar removed once or twice a year.
- Healthy diet. Avoiding sweets and eating fresh vegetables and fruit strengthens the gums.
- Quitting smoking. Tobacco not only worsens the condition of the gums but also reduces the effectiveness of treatment.
Treatment options for gingivitis
If the disease has already developed, it is important to see a gum specialist as soon as possible.
- Professional dental hygiene. The dentist removes tartar and plaque using ultrasound and special instruments. This is the most important step in treatment.
- Medical treatment. Antiseptic mouthwashes, gels, and ointments for the gums are prescribed to relieve inflammation.
- Physical therapy. Laser and ultrasound therapy accelerate tissue healing and relieve pain.
- Bite correction and dentures. In cases of inflammation associated with poorly fitting crowns or misaligned teeth, additional treatment is performed.
- Home care. The patient is advised to maintain good hygiene and use medicated pastes and herbal decoctions for rinsing.
Complications
Many ignore the early signs of gingivitis, believing that bleeding gums are normal. In fact, without timely treatment, the inflammation progresses. It can develop into periodontitis (a disease that affects the gums and bone structures that hold the teeth in place). In this case, the teeth become loose, their necks become exposed, and they may even fall out. Studies also show that chronic gingivitis may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes-related complications.
The bottom line
Gingivitis is a condition that can’t be ignored. It often goes unnoticed until unpleasant symptoms appear. It's important to remember that gums are no less important to the oral cavity than teeth. Regular hygiene, preventative dental visits, and giving up bad habits will help keep gums healthy and prevent complications. If you notice the first signs of inflammation, don't delay your visit. Timely treatment can completely eliminate the problem and provide a healthy smile for many years to come.
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