Gingivitis: What You Need to Know About This Type of Gum Disease

Gum Disease Grayslake, IL

Avoiding gum disease at all costs is essential, as once someone is diagnosed with this dental-related disease, it means that they are in need of additional dental treatment to restore their good oral health. Even though gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, it can still cause harm to one’s overall good oral health.

About gingivitis

Thinking that you may have gum disease? When someone is diagnosed with gingivitis, it means that there is a buildup of bacterial plaque taking place on and around their teeth. While this plaque buildup will irritate the gums, if not treated, gingivitis will eventually cause the gums to separate from the teeth. When this begins to happen, it begins to damage the soft tissues and bones supporting the teeth. This separation can lead to tooth loss, which is to be avoided, as lost teeth need to be replaced. According to the American Dental Association, gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, usually caused by a bacterial infection, and if left untreated, it can become a more serious infection known as periodontitis.

Important facts about this stage of gum disease

The list below includes information on what everyone needs to know about this stage of gum disease.

Risk factors

Even though most people who are diagnosed with gingivitis receive their diagnosis because they are not properly taking care of their oral health, there are additional risk factors that can cause someone to have gingivitis. These risk factors include but are not limited to a change in hormones, having a family history, smoking, taking certain medications, not consuming a healthy diet or being diagnosed with certain diseases, e.g., diabetes, cancer, etc.

Common signs

It can be difficult for some people to know if they have gingivitis when it is in its beginning stages. This is because the beginnings of this disease tend to not cause any discomfort or pain. This is one of the main reasons that it is so important for every dental patient to make regular dental appointments. Common signs associated with gingivitis include soft gums, receding gums, tender gums, bleeding gums, swollen gums, gums that take on a red or purple hue and any level of bad breath.

Treatment

Those who are diagnosed with gingivitis will need to undergo dental treatment as soon as possible in order to restore the health of their gums. The fact that this is the first stage of gum disease means that treatment will be easier, making it essential for those with gingivitis to seek treatment as soon as possible. Treatment requires patients to undergo a scaling and root planing process, also known as a deep cleaning. For those who do not seek dental treatment in a timely manner, they will also need to undergo a deep cleaning, as well as one or more other treatments, e.g., taking medications, undergoing dental surgery, etc.

Got gingivitis?

Are you living with the first stage of gum disease? This stage of gum disease is the easiest to treat, making it essential for anyone who experiences any signs of gum disease to make a dental appointment as soon as possible for treatment. Gum disease is preventable and requires one to make and adhere to a daily oral hygiene routine. For those who need help making a routine, they can simply ask their dental professional for their experienced guidance.

Request an appointment here: https://www.advdentalarts.com or call Advanced Dental Arts: Rey Martinez DDS at (847) 223-5200 for an appointment in our Grayslake office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Grayslake, IL.

 

Recent Posts

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Gum disease is not something that anyone wants to deal with, however, it is often inevitable. This oral condition operates in a few different stages, ranging from mild to severe. In order to avoid entering the severe stages, it is important to take preventive measures. There are a few different ways that general dentists recommend…

Does Gum Disease Put The Entire Body At Risk?

Gum disease is a progressive condition that is caused by bacteria in the mouth getting into gum tissues. Your immune system responds to this invasion by sending off antibodies to fight off the invaders. The ensuing battle leads to inflammation and damage to the structures that support teeth.The first stage of gum disease is called…

4 Benefits Of Dental Implants

Considering dental implants? No one should have to live with missing teeth that cause cosmetic or oral health concerns, and dental implants help many replace missing teeth and regain confidence in their smile. Along with the cosmetic benefits, many find better oral health, improved function and other advantages with dental implants.There are many benefits dental…

Can Cosmetic Dentistry Improve Your Smile?

Many patients want to improve their smiles — this is where a cosmetic dentist can help. Read on to learn how cosmetic dentistry can improve the look of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the quality of the smile, while also addressing oral health and functional concerns as necessary.The primary focus of cosmetic dentistry is…