Gingivitis — How healthy are your teeth and gums?

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a common but mild gum disease that causes irritation, redness and swelling or inflammation of the gingiva, which is the gum around the base of your teeth. Taking gingivitis seriously is important, as it can lead to a severe gum disease called periodontitis and tooth loss.

• Bleeding gums — One of the most common signs of gingivitis is if your gums are bleeding, especially when you are brushing or flossing your teeth.

• Red or swollen gums — Gingivitis can cause your gums to be red, swollen, and tender.

• Bad breath (halitosis) — Persistent bad breath can be a symptom of gingivitis due to the build-up of bacteria in the mouth.

• Tender or sensitive gums — Gums affected by gingivitis may be more sensitive to touch or pressure.

• Painful chewing — With severe inflammation, chewing or eating certain foods may cause you discomfort.

How do I treat gingivitis?

1. Improved oral hygiene

• Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. With a soft-bristled toothbrush, try to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the gumline.

• For areas that your toothbrush may not be able to reach, try flossing daily to ensure full removal of plaque and debris. 

2. Antiseptic mouthwash

Incorporate recommended antiseptics or antimicrobial mouthwash into your dental routines to help reduce bacteria and plaque in your mouth.

3. Scaling and root planing

Your dentist may even recommend deep cleaning procedures called scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline while smoothing the tooth roots to prevent any further buildup. 

4. Addressing underlying health conditions

If your gingivitis is potentially related to an underlying health condition (such as diabetes), your dentist may work with your healthcare provider to help manage your condition.

5. Healthy lifestyle choices

It is advisable to try adopting a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a balanced diet, as proper nutrition contributes to overall oral health and can help boost your immune system.

6. Quit smoking

If you smoke, quitting can improve gum health and reduce the risk of gum disease.

What happens if I do not treat my gingivitis?

If you have gingivitis and do not treat it, a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis may develop. Periodontitis can irreversibly damage your supporting teeth structure, leading to gum recession, bone loss and eventually tooth loss.

What causes gingivitis?

Gingivitis is mainly caused by a plaque build-up on your teeth. This bacteria makes acids and toxins that irritate and inflame your gums. Besides poor oral hygiene, here are some more causes of gingivitis:

1. Smoking or chewing tobacco

Tobacco use can harm the immune system and reduce blood flow to the gums, making it harder for the body to fight infection and heal.

2. Health conditions

Some conditions, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and cancer, can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to gum infections, including gingivitis.

3. Dry mouth

Reduced saliva can cause gingivitis, as saliva helps neutralise acids and wash away bacteria. Dry mouth may be caused by medications or breathing through the mouth.

4. Poorly fitted dental appliances 

Dental devices like braces or dentures that don't fit properly can contribute to plaque retention and gum irritation, increasing the risk of gingivitis.

5. Malnutrition

If your diet is lacking in essential nutrients (particularly vitamin C), your immune system may weaken and make the gums more susceptible to infections.

6. Hormonal changes

Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause may increase gum sensitivity, making them more prone to gingivitis.

7. Genetics

Genetically, some people may be more susceptible to gum disease, especially If your family has a history of gum problems.