Gingivitis

A Comprehensive Guide to Gingivitis — The First Stage of Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is fairly common, affecting millions of people worldwide. It’s caused by plaque buildup on your teeth and gums, and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious forms of gum disease and can potentially cause permanent damage to your teeth and gums.

At our Virginia dental office, our dentists aim to keep our patients well-informed about their conditions and offer personalized treatment. To schedule your appointment at The Foleck Center, contact us today.

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease that affects the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It’s caused by the buildup of plaque on your teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums when you eat or drink. If plaque isn’t removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning.

The bacteria in plaque can irritate your gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to early periodontitis.

Symptoms of Gingivitis 

The symptoms of gingivitis can vary from person to person. Common signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with our dentists in Virginia as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of gingivitis can prevent it from progressing to a more serious form of gum disease.

How to Treat Gingivitis

Several steps can be taken to treat gingivitis.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush along the gumline and all tooth surfaces. Floss daily to remove dental plaque and food particles from between your teeth.

Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing and flossing. This helps reduce bacteria and plaque.

Visit your dentists for professional dental cleanings. A dental hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup that can’t be eliminated through regular brushing and flossing. They may also recommend a deeper cleaning, such as scaling and root planing to reverse your gingivitis symptoms.

Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can contribute to gum inflammation. Instead, opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for your gums to heal. Quitting smoking can significantly improve the health of your gums.

Chronic stress can affect your oral health. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as regular exercise, relaxation techniques, or seeking support from loved ones.

Visit your dentists for regular checkups. They’ll monitor the condition of your gums and provide necessary guidance and treatment.

Gingivitis Treatment Costs

The costs of gingivitis treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the recommended treatment plan, and the geographical location. General cost estimates for common gingivitis treatments are:

Complications of Gingivitis

When left untreated, gingivitis can lead to advanced gum disease or other serious health conditions. The inflammation caused by gingivitis can spread from gum tissue to the supporting structures of the teeth, such as the bone and ligaments, leading to a more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.

With untreated periodontal disease, patients may experience the destruction of the bone and tissue that hold the teeth in place, leading to tooth loss. If you’re experiencing symptoms of early-stage gum disease, see a dental professional as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, gingivitis is not contagious. It’s a bacterial infection caused by the buildup of plaque on your teeth and gums, which is only created due to a lack of daily brushing and flossing.

While you can improve your oral hygiene habits at home, it’s important to schedule a professional dental cleaning to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. There are hard-to-reach areas of the mouth that can’t always be cleaned with regular brushing and flossing. Regular dental visits will help you avoid developing periodontal disease.

Yes, gingivitis is reversible with proper treatment and improved oral hygiene habits. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis, which can cause permanent damage to your teeth and gums.

You can prevent gingivitis by practicing good oral hygiene habits at home, including brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Make sure to also schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth and gums.

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and affects the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It’s caused by the buildup of plaque on your teeth and gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis, which affects the bone that supports your teeth.

Gingivitis Doesn’t Stand a Chance Against Our Virginia Dentist

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gingivitis, such as swollen or bleeding gums, schedule an appointment with our experienced and knowledgeable dentists in Virginia. Our dental team is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care to help you prevent and treat periodontal diseases, as well as help you maintain good oral health.

Contact us today to schedule your dental appointment and take the first step toward a healthier smile. We look forward to hearing from you!

Read Our Blog

How to Get Rid of Swollen Gums
Dentistry

How to Get Rid of Swollen Gums

Our gums are sensitive, and if we do not practice good oral hygiene habits, they can become inflamed, painful, or infected. Gums are important and help to hold our teeth

How Can I Fix a Chipped Tooth?
Dentistry

How Can I Fix a Chipped Tooth?

Chipped or injured teeth are typically considered a dental emergency. We offer many cosmetic services, and have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry. If you have a chipped tooth, you