Do You Have Questions About Gingivitis? Get Answers from Your Local Dentist

Going to the dentist will do more than just checking for cavities. Your dentist will also examine the condition of your gums. Why? Because the condition of your gums affects more than just the health of your teeth; it also affects your general health. Most people have heard of gingivitis, but few actually understand it.

Continue reading to find out more about gingivitis and how it may impact your health. Call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to schedule a full dental exam and examination to determine whether you have gingivitis.

What is gingivitis exactly?

Simply put, gingivitis is an infection of the gums. When you brush or floss, you may notice that your gums bleed easily and are swollen if you have gingivitis. Gums that are retreating, having a dark red color, and poor breath are further signs. A trip to the dentist is advised if you experience any of these signs.

The good news is that gingivitis is one of the less severe gum diseases out of all of them. The bad news is that it may cause periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that may result in life-threatening medical issues. For instance, a person with periodontal disease may experience tooth loss, bone loss, and an increased risk of diabetes or heart disease.

Why does gingivitis occur?

There are many possible causes. Not taking excellent care of your gums is one of the most frequent culprits. This involves visiting your dentist at least twice a year and brushing and flossing two times every day. Gum disease risk can also be increased by smoking, using certain drugs, and having certain medical conditions. Research is beginning to suggest that genetics may also be important.

Is gingivitis reversible or curable?

Yes, gingivitis may often be treated and reversed. This is why, if you think you may have gingivitis, you should call your dentist right away. Certain aspects of this illness, such as tartar buildup, which can cause gum inflammation and ultimately gingivitis, may necessitate expert intervention.

Tartar can only be removed from your teeth by a professional dental cleaning. We can create a treatment plan that is likely to include brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and specialized treatment once we have identified the most likely causes and contributing factors for your gingivitis. The sooner we can start treating your gingivitis, the more likely we are to be able to completely reverse it.

Although gingivitis is nothing to be concerned about, it should also not be disregarded. Call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to find out more about how we can help with this and other dental diseases, as well as how we can diagnose and treat them.