Gum Disease: A Deeper Look at Gingivitis

Gum disease at any stage can be extremely dangerous to one's oral health. Long-term, it can even put the entire body's health at risk for developing other conditions. The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis and it usually means that the infection has just developed along the gumlines. Ready to learn more?

Gingivitis

Outlined below is everything that is important to know regarding the first stage of gum disease. 

What to know

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and usually, it means that the gums are slightly infected and often inflamed. Most patients report that their gums are puffy, red or swollen and feel sore and irritated. Another symptom is minor bleeding when brushing or flossing. 

Gum disease is often a result of poor oral hygiene. When the teeth are not cleaned regularly, plaque builds up and causes bacterial growth. Long-term, bacterial growth causes cavities and gingivitis. 

Treatment and therapy

Gingivitis is relatively minor, but it does require treatment in order to stop the growth and development of the infection. General dentists usually administer a simple treatment plan involving a deep dental cleaning and an oral rinse.

The deep dental cleaning involves cleaning beneath the gums to remove plaque build-up. Typically, patients should expect to spend an hour and a half at their dentist's office for the cleaning. Additionally, more routine cleanings may be required in the months following initial treatment. 

Oral rinses can be prescribed to remedy gum disease at any stage. They can help reduce symptoms and clear out any infections within the gums. Typically, general dentists recommend oral rinses be used daily until the infection has cleared out. 

Avoiding gum disease

There are a few ways to avoid gum disease and the easiest way is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing the teeth twice a day or after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help keep the gums in good shape. It is crucial to brush along the gumlines because this is where plaque builds up and lives. Additionally, flossing once a day is extremely important. A lot of people skip flossing, but it is actually vital in avoiding gum disease. 

Another way to prevent gum disease is to visit the dental hygienist on a more frequent basis. Most people have their teeth cleaned twice a year or every 6 months, however, it can be beneficial to have it done more frequently. Gingivitis is easily prevented when the hygienist has the opportunity to rid the gumlines of plaque more often.

Reach out today!

Suffering from any stage of gum disease? A lot of people struggle with infected gums at one point or another in their lives. It is pretty rare that the gums suffer due to a lack or oral hygiene. Thankfully, with the help of a general dentist, gum disease of any form can be managed, treated and prevented. Reach out today to learn more or to get started with the appropirate treatment!

Request an appointment here: https://totalcareimplantdentistry.com or call Total Care Implant Dentistry at (760) 394-3088 for an appointment in our Palm Desert office.

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