What Is Gingivitis?

By Author: rajat ziffytech
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Gingivitis is a common gum disease (periodontal disease) causing irritation, redness, and swelling in the gingival (the part of your gums at the base of your teeth). You must treat gingivitis seriously before it progresses further. Gingivitis if left untreated can lead to severe gum diseases called periodontitis and tooth loss.

Gingivitis is caused by poor oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and dental visits at least twice a year are important steps that can be taken to prevent and reverse gingivitis.

The types of gingivitis are:-

Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG) is associated with specific bacterial species and stress. ANUG is also known as Trench Mouth or Vincent’s infection. Symptoms of ANUG are fever and weakness, enlarged lymph nodes, mouth pain, and excessive salvia. Acute
Actinomycotic Gingivitis is rare. Symptoms include redness, burning pain, and may not respond to conventional gingivitis treatment. Actinomyciotic gingivitis may be treated by anti-fungal treatment. Pregnancy gingivitis affects pregnant women. Elevated levels of hormones can cause the condition. Estrogen and progesterone levels can cause blood vessels to enlarge, which makes gums more sensitive to plaque. Your gums can become red, swollen, and tender. Pregnancy gingivitis is temporary and responds to regular brushing and flossing.
Diabetic gingivitis is a common condition. Some complications because of diabetes include dry mouth, burning tongue, and gingivitis.
Symptoms

Healthy gums are pink and fitted tightly around the teeth. Symptoms of gingivitis are:-

Swollen red gums
Bleeding gums, especially while brushing or flossing.
Tooth pain or sensitivity when exposed to cold or hot food. Tooth sensitivity is caused when your gums pull away from your gums.
Loose teeth or changes in the way your teeth fit when you bite down.
If you notice the sign of gingivitis, it is important to visit the best dentist in Pune. Gingivitis is reversible but must be treated before the disease progresses to periodontitis.

Causes

Gingivitis is caused because of poor dental hygiene. Poor oral hygiene causes plaque to form on the teeth causing inflammation of the gums. Other causes of gingivitis include

Hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and menstruation.
Illnesses that affect the immune system or chronic conditions such as diabetes.
Medications can impact oral health.
Family history of dental problems
Smoking
Diagnosis
The best dentist in Pune will give you a thorough oral examination during which they will examine your:-
Gums to look for signs of swelling, bleeding, and firmness.
Teeth for movement and teeth sensitivity.
Bite to check for teeth alignment
X-ray to detect breakdown of bone surroundings.
Treatment

The best dentist in Pune will treat gingivitis depending on its severity. Your dentist will aim to reduce swelling and redness, depth of pockets, reduce the infection, and prevent gingivitis from progressing to more serious gum diseases.

Prevention

Gingivitis is a preventable and reversible condition. Steps you can take to take care of your teeth

Maintaining proper oral hygiene such as brushing twice a day.
Using a soft bristle brush to be replaced after three months.
Floss daily and use mouthwash.
Schedule periodic visits to a dentist near me.