Gingivitis is more common than you think and if you have swollen red gums that bleed when you brush and floss, it is time to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
Colgate explains that Gingivitis can become quite serious and if it isn’t treated as quickly as possible could develop into the more serious periodontal disease.
Your dentist explains that healthy gums are pink and firm. If your gums are dusky red, puffy and bleed quite easily, you could be dealing with gingivitis. Gingivitis will seldom cause you any pain. In fact, some people aren’t even aware that they have gum disease.
Some of the symptoms that occur with gingivitis include:
- Soft and puffy gums
- Swollen gums
- Gums that are receding
- Tender gums
- Gums that bleed when you floss or brush
- Bad breath
- Color change from pink to a dusky red
The only way to prevent gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene habits that include brushing twice and flossing once each day. It is also important to eat a healthy diet that is full of fresh fruits and vegetables. Once of the most important oral hygiene habits are regular checkups with your dentist.
When you see your dentist at least twice a year, gum disease can be spotted before gingivitis has developed into the more serious periodontal disease. The sooner you take care of the issues, the better chance you have of reversing the damage caused by gingivitis.
Gingivitis is quite common, in fact, anyone can have it. Quite a few people will have their first experience with gum issues during puberty and varying degrees throughout the rest of their lives.
Other factors that may increase your risk include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Diabetes
- Tobacco use
- Age
- Certain medications
- A decrease in your immune system
- Fungal and viral infections
- Dry mouth
- Pregnancy
- Birth control pills
- Menstruation
- Poor nutrition
- Substance abuse
- Bad fitting dental restorations
If gingivitis is not taken care of, it will eventually lead to periodontal disease, which can cause tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Don’t wait until it is too late, call and schedule an appointment for thorough checkup with your dentist today.