Signs of Gingivitis
Protect Your Mouth From Gingivitis
In a perfect world, no one would have any dental health problems; but the reality is that, without proper dental care, your mouth can develop major health issues. A common problem that occurs as a result of poor dental care is gingivitis. You need to know the causes, signs, and treatments for gingivitis to protect your mouth from this harmful disease.
What are the Causes of Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a disease that is caused by poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup. Plaque forms on your teeth when starches and sugars interact with the bacteria in your mouth and can be removed from your gumline by brushing and flossing twice a day. If not removed daily, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. The longer tartar stays on your teeth, the more it irritates the gums at the baseline.
What are the Signs of Gingivitis?
Healthy gums are pale pink and firm. If you suffer from gingivitis, your gums may appear swollen and puffy and feel tender at times. Your gums could also bleed when you brush your teeth or floss, which you may see as redness on your brush. You can be more susceptible to gingivitis if you have dry mouth, diabetes, or use tobacco. Also, if you are pregnant, you are more likely to experience tooth decay, so expecting mothers should be especially weary of plaque buildup.
What are the Treatments for Gingivitis?
Effective gingivitis treatment requires professional help and an increase in oral hygiene care at home. Your dentist will provide you with a thorough cleaning and detailed instructions on how to care for your teeth at home. If you have misaligned teeth or poorly-fitted dental fixtures, your dentist may suggest fixing these problems to avoid future gingivitis issues. You will also have to improve your brushing and flossing habits as well as schedule regular visits to ensure that you keep your gums healthy.
Ronald Murphy Dentistry is committed to keeping your teeth and gums healthy and improving your oral health. If you think you may suffer from gingivitis, visit our Batavia, IL office to receive proper treatment. Call us today at 630-879-7642 to schedule an appointment.