In some cases, especially when oral hygiene and regular cleanings at the dentist are neglected, plaque builds up on the teeth, which can cause a number of diseases that affect the teeth and gums, such as gingivitis. This condition is local inflammation of the gums of infectious origin. It is one of the mildest gum diseases and its effects are reversible. Gingivitis requires immediate and targeted treatment, in order not to create more serious problems for the patient. For this reason, it is extremely important to take care of gum health by maintaining a good dental brushing and flossing routine and scheduling regular visits to the dentist for thorough teeth cleaning.
Causes & symptoms of gingivitis
The main cause of gingivitis is the repeated accumulation of plaque around, on and between the teeth, mainly in hard-to-reach areas. Plaque contains a significant number of bacteria, which when not removed, produce toxins. These toxins, if they remain for a long time in the oral cavity, erode the enamel of the teeth and create problems in the gums. Consequently, many oral health problems such as gingivitis are caused. As the inflammation progresses, various signs and symptoms will begin to manifest.
Gingivitis is manifested by redness and swelling of the gums, which also often bleed, especially when brushing the teeth. At the same time, bad breath may occur and in rare cases pain and tingling in the gums may present. For the most part, however, the condition is painless and apart from minor bleeding when brushing the teeth, patients may be unaware of its existence. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into a more serious gum condition called periodontitis, which can lead to significant gum degeneration and tooth loss.
Gingivitis and treatment: What are the options?
Gingivitis can be reversed with early treatment, preventing it from progressing to advanced gum disease and tooth loss. Treatment begins with excellent oral care at home, including thorough twice-daily teeth brushing and regular flossing. Controlling bad habits that are risk factors for gum disease, such as smoking and a diet high in sugary foods and drinks and starchy, plaque-promoting refined carbohydrates, plays an important role. Even with good oral hygiene, you may need professional help. Professional gingivitis treatments by a specialist dentist are extremely effective in order to treat gingivitis using targeted therapy.
Professional dental scaling is the first step in both the prevention and treatment of gingivitis. A qualified dentist thoroughly cleans the teeth and removes all traces of plaque, tartar, stains and bacteria from the surfaces of the teeth and the area just below the gums. In order for the gingivitis to be properly treated and the symptoms to subside, 2 dental scalings performed by a dentist are required within 15 days. During this time, the patient is asked to carefully follow the oral hygiene maintenance instructions set by the dentist.
At the same time, a special oral solution with medicinal-antiseptic properties is prescribed, which the patient uses after the end of the treatment. During the second cleaning, the condition is re-evaluated and depending on the results, the next cleaning is planned after approximately 4 months. If medication is needed with the administration of medication, antibiotics or even vitamins in the form of supplements, this is determined by the treating dentist based on the patient’s history. Generally, early diagnosis and treatment of gingivitis can prevent some permanent damage to the teeth and gums. It is highly recommended that you visit a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and examinations, not just when symptoms appear, as the treatment and prevention of gingivitis consists of regularly removing plaque from the teeth and gums.
