You’ve probably heard the term “gingivitis” during a dental visit, but do you know what it actually means? Gingivitis is a common and early form of gum disease that affects millions of people every year. The good news is that it’s both preventable and treatable when caught early. At Riverside Dental in Watertown, WI, we help patients recognize and manage gingivitis before it turns into something more serious.
Let’s break down what gingivitis is, what signs to watch for, and how our team can help you treat and prevent it with the right care.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a gum inflammation caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky bacterial film that develops on the surface of your teeth. Failing to brush and floss every day allows plaque to harden into tartar, which can irritate the gums and potentially cause infection. That’s when you start seeing symptoms of gingivitis.
This early stage of gum disease doesn’t always cause pain, so many people don’t even know they have it. However, not addressing the issue can lead to more serious conditions like periodontitis, which may result in tooth loss and damage to your jawbone.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Gingivitis
It’s important to know the signs of gingivitis so you can get ahead of it before it causes permanent damage. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Gums that feel tender or sensitive
Receding gum lines or changes in gum shape
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an appointment. The earlier we catch gingivitis, the easier it is to treat.
What Causes Gingivitis?
Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gingivitis. When brushing and flossing are skipped or done incorrectly, plaque can build up quickly. Other risk factors include:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or puberty)
- Certain medications
- Health conditions like diabetes
- Poor nutrition
Regular dental visits can catch problems like gingivitis early, especially if you are at higher risk.
How Gingivitis Is Diagnosed
At Riverside Dental, we use a thorough and gentle approach to diagnose gingivitis. During your exam, we’ll look for signs of gum inflammation, measure pocket depths between your teeth and gums, and ask about any symptoms you’ve noticed.
We may also take dental X-rays to check for bone loss or deeper infection that may not be visible on the surface. This helps us determine whether you have gingivitis or a more advanced form of gum disease.
Effective Treatment Options
If you are diagnosed with gingivitis, don’t worry. Treatment is simple, effective, and non-invasive when started early. Here are some of the steps we may recommend:
- Professional Cleaning: The first step is removing plaque and tartar from your teeth with a deep cleaning. This helps reduce inflammation and allows your gums to heal.
- Improved Oral Hygiene at Home: We’ll show you how to brush and floss properly, and you may be recommended to use an antibacterial mouthwash. Consistency is key to keeping gingivitis under control.
- Regular Checkups: Frequent dental visits help us monitor your progress and make sure gingivitis doesn’t return.
- Fluoride treatment: Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and protect against decay. While it doesn’t treat gingivitis directly, it supports overall oral health, which plays a role in gum health too.
Preventing Gingivitis Before It Starts
The best way to deal with gingivitis is to prevent it in the first place. Here’s what you can do:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Avoid tobacco products
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups
At Riverside Dental, we work with you to create a prevention plan that fits your lifestyle and helps you maintain healthy gums for life.
Why Choose Riverside Dental for Gum Health?
Our team is committed to your long-term oral health. We understand how frustrating and uncomfortable gingivitis can be, and we’re here to help you take control. Whether it’s been a while since your last cleaning or you’re already noticing symptoms, we make the process simple, comfortable, and effective.
With state-of-the-art tools and a caring team, we focus on education, prevention, and results that last.
Contact Us Today
If you think you might have gingivitis or just want to stay on top of your gum health, don’t wait. Call Riverside Dental at (920) 262-2176 to schedule your exam. Our friendly team is here to help you get the healthy, confident smile you deserve!
