Warning Signs of Gingivitis

Cavity prevention and fresh breath aren’t the only reasons to brush and floss. Good oral hygiene is essential for healthy gums. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 50% of Americans have the infection. It is a leading cause of tooth loss, and gum disease can increase your risk of many health problems, including heart attacks and strokes. Thankfully, the infection is easy to treat when caught during the earliest stage, gingivitis. Learn how to spot the warning signs of gum disease.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis occurs when bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup irritate and infect the gums. Although the initial signs of gum disease may not appear alarming, bleeding gums can lead to missing teeth. Besides causing irreversible damage to your smile, the infection can enter your bloodstream and wreak havoc as it circulates throughout your body.

It’s important to contact your dentist as soon as you notice any symptoms of gum disease, which include: 

• Swollen or puffy gums
• Dark or dusky red gums
• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Bad breath
• Receding gum line
• Painful or tender gums

Stop Gingivitis with Gum Disease Therapy

Improving your oral hygiene at home can remove plaque and promote healthy gums. However, you should still see your dentist. They’ll examine your gums to create a personalized plan to combat the infection. 

Scaling and root planing are common solutions for gum disease, also known as a deep cleaning. Special dental instruments are used to remove tartar from above and below the gum line. Your dentist may recommend additional treatments, like antibiotic therapy. A topical antibiotic is applied to the gums to kill the infection. 

Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings and checkups to monitor your gum health.

Prevent Gingivitis from Reoccurring

You can keep gum disease from reoccurring by keeping your oral hygiene a priority. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily for 2 minutes each session. Besides brushing, floss every day to remove food particles and plaque your toothbrush couldn’t reach. Add a daily mouthwash to your routine to kill any bacteria lingering in your mouth. 

It’s best to break any habits that can increase your risk of gum disease, like smoking. Tobacco raises the likelihood of advanced gum disease, but it’s also more difficult to treat. Limit your consumption of alcohol, which can increase your risk of infections. 

Besides caring for your smile at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll remove any buildup to keep your smile clean. They will also examine your mouth to look for anything concerning, like gum inflammation.

You can support a healthy mouth and body by giving your gums the attention they deserve.

About Dr. Franco Cordini

Dr. Cordini earned his dental degree from Creighton University School of Dentistry and continued his education in periodontics at the University of Louisville. He specializes in gum disease treatment. Request an appointment through our website or call (502) 317-1122.