How to Recognize & Treat Gingivitis

Periodontal (gum) disease is a common oral health condition that affects millions of US adults. In fact, some studies indicate as much as 80% of the population over the age of 65 struggles with some form of gum disease. The mildest type is often referred to as gingivitis, and the warning signs of this common disease are very mild. Unfortunately, gingivitis can be easily overlooked by the untrained eye. That’s why visiting a dentist regularly for a maintenance appointment is so important. You can also educate yourself on the warning signs and risk factors associated with gum disease by reading this blog post. If we begin treatment in the early stages of gum disease, periodontal therapies effectively renew oral health.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a mild form a of gum disease. It is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar at the gum line that irritates soft tissue causing inflammation, discomfort, and left untreated, a variety of other oral health issues.

What are the Risk Factors & Warning Signs of Gingivitis?

Patients who suffer from immune compromising illnesses like diabetes, those with dry mouth, and expectant mothers are all at a greater risk for gum disease. It’s important that these patients especially take note of any changes in oral health. However, knowing the symptoms of this common condition is beneficial for every patient. Some early indicators that a patient is suffering from gum disease include:

• Swollen or inflamed gum tissue
• Infection in gum tissue
• Discolored soft tissue
• Gums that bleed during cleaning or while eating

Why Should I Treat Gingivitis?

Without treatment, gingivitis progresses to the more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis. Unlike the mild and often overlooked warning signs of gingivitis, the symptoms associated with this advanced form of gum disease are quite severe. Some of these serious oral health issues include:

• Teeth that feel loose or shift out of alignment
• Bite that doesn’t fit together properly creating uneven wear and straining the TMJ
• Chronic bad breath that does not improve following cleaning
• Loss of one or more teeth is possible as the supportive oral structures are destroyed

Meet the Arbor Dental Care Team

At Arbor Dental Care, we use our blog to share important educational information with our patients. You can also find updates on local events and the involvement our team has with the Lisle community. We hope you learned a lot about gingivitis and how we can renew oral health for patients suffering from this condition. Please feel free to contact our caring team to find out more or schedule a consultation.