Gingivitis is an often painful inflammation of the gums, or gingiva. It typically occurs due to plaque buildup on the teeth. Gingivitis is a common condition that affects most adults at some point in their life. It is a form of gum disease that typically causes mild symptoms. However, it can progress into a more severe condition if a person does not treat its root cause.
Key points about gingivitis include:
- Bacterial buildup around the teeth is the most common cause of gingivitis.
- The main symptom of gingivitis is red, puffy gums that may bleed when a person brushes their teeth.
- Gingivitis often resolves with good oral hygiene, such as longer and more frequent brushing, and regular flossing. In addition, an antiseptic mouthwash may help.
Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. People may generally refer to this as gum disease. Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease and typically produces mild symptoms.
There are two main types of gingivitis. Dental plaque-induced gingivitis occurs when plaque buildup irritates a person’s gums, resulting in inflammation, discoloration, and pain. In contrast, non-plaque-induced gingival lesions can result from a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. Allergic reactions, illnesses, and reactions to foreign bodies such as dentures, may also cause this type of gingivitis. Both types of gingivitis can progress to periodontitis if a person does not treat it adequately. Periodontitis is a more severe condition and can lead to further complications, such as loss of teeth.
The most common cause of gingivitis is the accumulation of bacterial plaque between and around the teeth. Dental plaque is a biofilm that accumulates naturally on the teeth. It occurs when bacteria attach to the smooth surface of a tooth.
This plaque can harden into calculus, or tartar, near the gums at the base of the teeth. This has a yellow-white color. Only dental professionals can remove calculus. Buildup of plaque and tartar can trigger immune responses that lead to gingival or gum tissue destruction. Eventually, it may lead to further complications, including the loss of teeth.
The signs and symptoms of gingivitis might include:
- gum inflammation and discoloration
- tender gums that may be painful to the touch
- bleeding from the gums when brushing or flossing
- halitosis, or bad breath
- receding gums
- soft gums
If diagnosis happens early and treatment is prompt and proper, a person may be able to treat gingivitis at home with good oral hygiene.
