Gingivitis: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

In this dental article, you will learn what gingivitis is, how to fight it naturally, how to prevent it with very simple habits and the first signs that should lead you to your dentist in Simi Valley to start the appropriate treatment.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis starts with the inflammation of the gums caused by plaque (a thin sticky film formed by bacteria that is deposited on the teeth by food) and the toxins it produces, which irritate our gum tissue and cause gingivitis.

This is the first phase of the disease, and it can be reversed with brushing, flossing and proper products to treat this ailment. When gingivitis escalates into a more serious stage, it is called periodontitis and it can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums.

Symptoms of Gingivitis

This disease can be painless but it is important to recognize its symptoms so that it can be treated in time to avoid damage to our teeth. The symptoms of gingivitis are:

• Swollen, red, sensitive or bleeding gums during brushing
• Gums that recede or detach from the tooth
• Bad breath or taste in the mouth
• Loose teeth that move slightly
• Visible pus around the teeth and gums

Gingivitis Treatment

Immediate treatment usually reverses the symptoms of gingivitis and prevents the development of more severe gum disease and tooth loss. You will have more chances of getting good results with this treatment if you also adopt a daily routine of good oral habits and stop smoking.

Gingivitis treatment includes:

• Professional Dental Cleaning: The first professional cleaning will consist in the elimination of all plaque, tartar and bacteria through a procedure called "root planing and scaling." Scraping removes tartar and bacteria from the surface of the teeth and below the gums. The root planing eliminates bacterial products produced by inflammation, softens the surface of the roots which prevents future accumulations of tartar and bacteria and facilitates adequate healing. This procedure can be performed with dental instruments, a laser or an ultrasonic device.
• Dental restoration if necessary: Misaligned teeth or crowns, bridges and other poorly fitting dental restorations can irritate the gums and make tartar difficult to remove during daily oral care. If there are problems with your teeth or dental restorations that contribute to gingivitis, your dentist may recommend you to fix these problems first.
• Careful attention: Gingivitis is often cured after a deep professional cleaning. Afterward, the dentist will help you plan an effective home care program and develop a schedule of regular professional cleanings and checkups.

Gingivitis Prevention

Some of the measures you can take at home to prevent or reverse gingivitis are the following:

• Brush your teeth twice a day or, better yet, after every meal or snack.
• Use a soft bristle brush and replace it at least every three to four months.
• Consider using an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at removing plaque and tartar.
• Floss every day
• Use a mouthwash to help reduce plaque between your teeth.
• Complements brushing and flossing with an interdental cleanser, such as a toothpick, interdental brush or dental rod specially designed to clean between the teeth.
• Perform regular dental cleanings with your dentist in Simi Valley, according to a schedule recommended by him.
• Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
• Follow a balanced diet rich in vitamin D to benefit and strengthen the gums

If you would like to learn more about gingivitis symptoms, prevention and treatment in Simi Valley, schedule your appointment with Dr. Muradian by calling (805) 522-0880.

Location: 3695 Alamo Street, #300 Simi Valley CA 93063

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