Gingivitis

Gingivitis: Signs and Symptoms

What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis - an inflammation of the gums - is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. The directcause of gingivitis is plaque, a film soft, sticky, colorless formed by bacteria that forms constantly on teeth and gums.

If brushing and flossing daily use not removeplaque, it produces toxins (poisons) that irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. In this first stage of the disease, the damage can be reversed, since the bone andconnective tissue that hold teeth in place have not been affected. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can become periodontitis and cause permanent damage to your teeth andjaw.

How do I know if I have gingivitis?
The classic signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red gums, swollen and tender that may bleed when you brush. Another signof gum disease is that they have receded or pulled away from teeth, giving your teeth an elongated appearance. Gum disease can cause the formation of pockets between teethand gums, where plaque and food debris.Some people may experience bad breath or bad taste even when recurrent disease is not advanced.

How I can prevent gingivitis?Good oral hygiene is essential. Professional cleanings are also extremely important because once plaque hardens and builds up, or become tartar, only a dentist or hygienistcan remove it.

You can help stop gingivitis before it develops as follows:

Proper brushing and proper use of dental floss to remove plaque, food debris and controltartar buildup
Eating right to ensure proper nutrition for your jawbone and teeth
Avoiding cigarettes and other forms of snuff
Schedule regular checkups with your dentist