Dental News

Learn the Core Causes of Gingivitis and How Your Dentist Can Help You Prevent It

September 9, 2022

Learn the Core Causes of Gingivitis and How Your Dentist Can Help You Prevent It

Inflammation of the gums, or gingivitis, is a common mild form of gum disease that develops prior to the full development of periodontal disease. However, not all gingivitis develops into a serious mouth condition. Indicators of gingivitis include irritation, redness, and swelling of the gums, particularly the gingiva, the area of gum that surrounds the teeth.

Plaque accumulation around the gingiva is the primary cause of gingivitis. Bad habits including smoking, poor oral hygiene, and a family history of dental disorders are other causes. Keep reading to learn more and then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 when you are ready for a dental cleaning and exam.

Tartar and plaque

Gingivitis can develop after plaque first develops on your teeth. When the carbohydrates and sugars in food interact with the bacteria in your mouth, plaque, a sticky film made mostly of bacteria, forms on your teeth. Plaque needs to be removed every day since it forms and then quickly reforms. Tartar can form if plaque is not removed before it has a chance to harden behind the gum line.

Plaque hardens into tartar, which is more challenging to remove and acts as a barrier for bacteria that irritate the gum line. Tartar removal requires a dental cleaning by a professional. The gingiva will become more irritated and inflamed and bleed more readily the longer plaque and tartar are left on your teeth. The teeth are securely still in place, and no bone or other tissue damage has yet taken place, despite the fact that the gums are inflamed and irritated by gingivitis.

Periodontal disease can result from gingivitis

If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, an advanced form of gum and tooth disease, and tooth decay. As gingivitis persists, more of the gum tissues and the bones are affected and harmed. Pockets can form when the inner layer of the gum and bone pulls away from the teeth. The tiny crevices in between the gums and teeth harbor waste and are susceptible to infection.

As the plaque spreads and enlarges below the gum line, the body’s immune system will battle the bacteria. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins, and the immune system’s “good” cells that fight infections can also release enzymes that damage the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth. The teeth can no longer be held firmly in place, they become loose, and the tooth is lost once the connective tissues and bones have been damaged.

Gum disease in adults is the main reason for tooth loss. Gum disease symptoms include bleeding gums when you brush them, inflamed gums that are red, swollen, and sore, poor breath or a bad taste in your mouth, receding gums, deep pockets between the gums and teeth, or loose teeth.

Gingivitis can be prevented and treated with good oral hygiene practices include brushing at least twice per day, flossing once per day, and scheduling routine dental exams. Call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment if you want to schedule a dental cleaning.

Read Our Reviews