Gingivitis is a common gum disease. It affects a large number of people, yet unfortunately, many ignore the problem. This is unacceptable, as gum disease can have unpleasant and irreversible consequences. This article will explain the causes of gingivitis and how the disease progresses.
Causes of Gingivitis in Adults
Many people believe that gingivitis is solely the result of poor oral hygiene. While this is partly true, there are other contributing factors:
- Presence of plaque and tartar due to inadequate hygiene or disrupted natural cleaning of teeth;
- Untreated dental conditions: cavities, pulpitis, etc.;
- Poor nutrition and vitamin C deficiency;
- Weakened immune system;
- Oral or obstructed nasal breathing;
- Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections causing acute gingivitis;
- Mechanical and chemical injuries to the gums;
- Hormonal imbalances;
- Bite pathologies (crowding, deep bite);
- Damage to crowns and teeth that injures oral mucosa;
- Poorly installed prosthetic or orthodontic appliances;
- Endocrine disorders (diabetes) and digestive system diseases;
- Systemic pathologies;
- Smoking.
These are the main causes, but there are other potential triggers for gum disease.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
Unfortunately, people often focus more on tooth issues and neglect gum health. Early signs of gingivitis often go unnoticed. Common symptoms include:
- Swollen gums;
- Redness of the oral cavity, sometimes with a bluish tint;
- Bad breath;
- Soft, loose gum tissue;
- Bleeding while brushing or eating;
- High sensitivity of soft tissues;
- Painful chewing;
- Excessive plaque accumulation;
- Gum itching.
These symptoms are typical of acute gingivitis. Chronic gingivitis may present differently:
- No gum sensitivity;
- Minimal changes in gum pockets;
- Slight bleeding during brushing, etc.
If you notice any symptoms, consult a periodontist, who can accurately identify the disease and recommend treatment options.
How to Treat Gingivitis
The key to treating gingivitis is addressing its root cause. Mild cases are easier to treat, while severe cases may require surgical intervention and medication, including antibiotics.
Treatment usually involves several steps:
- Professional oral hygiene – removal of plaque and tartar by a dental hygienist;
- Elimination of infection sources – treatment of cavities and pulpitis;
- Antimicrobial therapy – use of antibiotics and antiseptic rinses;
- Correction of dental appliances – if improperly installed prosthetic or orthodontic devices are the cause, they may need to be replaced.
For gum problems, it’s best to consult a periodontist rather than a general dentist. The specialist will provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment plan.
