Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums, or gingiva. It commonly occurs because a film of plaque, or bacteria, accumulates on the teeth. Gingivitis is an early, mild stage of gum disease, but untreated it can progress to periodontitis, which is severe, irreversible gum disease and the most common reason for adult tooth loss. Spotting the signs of gingivitis is important, as it allows you to act quickly to stop the journey of gum disease before things get more serious. Receiving your regular dental cleanings with your dentist in Fort Lauderdale can help you stop gingivitis before it progresses.
To help you spot the signs here’s a handy guide to the four main gingivitis symptoms:
Bleeding gums are one of the first symptoms of gum disease that you may experience. Healthy gums don’t bleed, so if you spot blood when you brush or floss this could be a sign of gingivitis. Even if you only see blood occasionally, don’t ignore it as it could be a sign that you’re developing gum problems. At your regular dental cleaning and exam appointment, be sure to allow your dentist and dental hygienist know if you experience bleeding gums.
There are lots of reasons why you could have bad breath or halitosis. May foods call cause bad breath. Improper brushing and flossing can also leave bacteria and food particles behind which cause bad breath. The bacteria linked to gum disease also gives off a nasty smell as it breaks down food particles in your mouth. Bad breath is an embarrassing and unpleasant condition, but it could also be the thing that alerts you that you are developing gum disease.
Healthy gums look pink and firm. Next time you brush your teeth, have a good look inside your mouth – if you have red, puffy, inflammed gums it could be a symptom of gingivitis.
Take a look in the mirror and see if you can spot any receding gums. This is when the gum begins to draw back from your teeth, which exposes the root beneath. You might be able to spot that your teeth look a bit longer or feel a notch where the gum meets the tooth (the gum line). Another sign of gum recession can be tooth sensitivity. Receding gums are relatively common. If you spot them, it’s time to find out the cause and what you can do to stop them getting worse.
If you experience any of these gingivitis signs, don’t ignore them. In the early stages you can stop the journey of gum disease, but over time, if left untreated it can progress into periodontitis and even tooth loss. The best thing to do if you spot any of these symptoms is schedule a visit to your dentist in Fort Lauderdale for a dental exam and cleaning. A professional can spot the early signs of gingivitis and advise you on the best way to treat them before they get any worse. If diagnosis happens early, and if treatment is prompt and proper, gingivitis can be successfully reversed. Treatment involves care by a dental professional, and follow-up procedures carried out by the patient at home.
Dr. Gerard Wasselle and Dr. Nancy Rotroff of Excellence in Dentistry at 2480 E. Commercial Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale are here for all of your dental needs. Call our office at 954-928-1666 to schedule your dental exam and cleaning to keep your smile bright and healthy.
