Home>What Is Gingivitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments & Prevention
What Is Gingivitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments & Prevention
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Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that is a precursor to the more-serious gum disease called periodontitis. Gingivitis can be so mild, in fact, that you may not even recognize it.
Here’s what you should know about the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of gingivitis.
What causes gingivitis? Gingivitis is caused by the buildup of bacteria, mucus, and food debris in our mouths, which combine into a sticky substance called plaque. When plaque doesn’t get removed by regular dental care, it turns into a more resilient substance called tartar. Plaque, tartar and the toxins they produce infect and inflame the gums, developing into gingivitis.
What are the symptoms of gingivitis?
Swollen, soft, puffy or receding gums
Tender gums, itchy guyms, or gums that easily bleed during brushing and flossing
Bad breath that just won’t go away
How to treat or prevent gingivitis? The best way to treat gingivitis is to prevent it from happening by maintaining a healthy oral-care routine, including:
Brushing teeth twice a day
Rinsing with mouthwash
Flossing regularly to remove plaque
Maintaining a healthy diet
Other factors that can lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is most commonly caused by plaque buildup, but there are a number of other conditions that may raise the risk of gingivitis, including:
Diabetes
Hormonal changes, especially for women during puberty or pregnancy
Misaligned teeth, rough edges or fillings, and unclean mouth appliances like braces or crowns.
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