Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. It is usually caused by the accumulation of dental plaque. The condition can often be treated by improving oral hygiene. The main symptoms of gingivitis are changes in gum color and bleeding gums.
Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that typically causes mild symptoms. However, it may progress to a more severe condition if the underlying cause is not treated. The accumulation of bacteria around the teeth is the most common cause of gingivitis.
The primary symptom of gingivitis is red, swollen gums that may bleed when a person brushes their teeth. Gingivitis can often be resolved through proper oral hygiene, such as brushing more thoroughly and more frequently and using dental floss regularly.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a non-destructive and mild type of periodontal disease. Although gingivitis does not cause bone loss, it is important to take it seriously and treat it promptly. Gingivitis is very common. Nearly half of all adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease.
There are two main types of gingivitis.
Plaque-induced gingivitis occurs when the accumulation of dental plaque irritates the gums, leading to inflammation, discoloration, and pain.
Non-plaque-induced gingival lesions may result from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Allergic reactions, systemic diseases, and reactions to foreign bodies may also cause this type of gingivitis.
Both types of gingivitis can progress to periodontitis if they are not properly treated. Periodontitis is a more severe condition and can lead to further complications, including tooth loss.
Causes of Gingivitis
The most common cause of gingivitis is the accumulation of bacterial plaque between and around the teeth.
Dental plaque is a biofilm that naturally forms on the teeth. It develops when bacteria adhere to the smooth surfaces of the teeth. Plaque can harden and turn into tartar near the gumline. Tartar can only be removed by dental professionals. The accumulation of plaque and tartar may trigger immune responses that lead to the destruction of gum tissue. Over time, this can result in further complications, including tooth loss.
Other Causes and Risk Factors
Several underlying medical conditions and external factors may increase the risk of plaque accumulation or gum inflammation.
- Hormonal changes: These may occur during puberty, menopause, the menstrual cycle, and pregnancy. The gums may become more sensitive, increasing the risk of inflammation.
- Certain medical conditions: Cancer, diabetes, and HIV are associated with a higher risk of gingivitis.
- Medications: Drugs that reduce saliva production may affect oral health. Medications used to treat epilepsy and angina may also cause abnormal growth of gum tissue, increasing the risk of inflammation.
- Vitamin deficiencies: Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) is closely associated with gingivitis, as are deficiencies of vitamin D and vitamin B12.
- Smoking: Regular smokers are more likely to develop gingivitis than non-smokers.
- Age: The risk of gingivitis increases with age.
- Family history: People whose parents have had gingivitis are also at a higher risk of developing the condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Gingivitis
- Inflammation and discoloration of the gums;
- Sensitive gums and pain when touched;
- Bleeding gums during tooth brushing;
- Persistent bad breath;
- Soft gums;
- Receding gums (gum recession).
However, mild cases of gingivitis may not cause discomfort or noticeable symptoms.
Very rarely, gingivitis can cause fever, particularly in cases of acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis. Elevated body temperature is associated with involvement of the submandibular lymph nodes. Intense pain, especially acute pain, is also associated with this rare form of gingivitis.
Diagnosis
A dentist will examine the mouth for signs such as plaque and tartar accumulation. The dentist may also order diagnostic tests to check for signs of periodontitis.This can be done using dental X-rays or periodontal probing, which measures the depth of the periodontal pockets around the teeth.
Treatment
If diagnosed at an early stage, gingivitis can often be treated at home through proper oral hygiene practices.
However, if symptoms persist or the condition affects a person’s quality of life, professional dental care should be sought.
Treatment often includes professional dental care followed by home care procedures performed by the patient. Initially, the dentist may remove plaque and tartar by performing a professional dental cleaning.
Prevention
A person can prevent gingivitis at home by maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes brushing the teeth at least twice a day with a toothbrush and flossing at least once a day.
Complications
Treating gingivitis and following the dentist’s recommendations can usually prevent complications. However, gum disease can spread and affect the surrounding tissues, teeth, and bone if left untreated.
Complications may include:
- An abscess or infection of the gums or jawbone;
- Periodontitis, a more serious condition that can lead to bone loss and tooth loss;
- Recurrent oral gingivitis, in which a bacterial infection leads to the formation of gum ulcers.
Gingivitis is a common type of gum disease. It results from the accumulation of bacteria on the teeth, which irritates the gum tissue and may cause inflammation, discoloration, and pain when touched. Most people can treat gingivitis by consistently maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups can help identify signs of gum disease early and ensure timely treatment.
This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.