Gingivitis

What is it?
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. If you experience an occasional swelling of the gums, gums that bleed after brushing or flossing, itchy gums, or bright red or purple gums, these can be early warning signs .

Chronic gingivitis is a common condition. It affects over 90% of the population of the United States. If treated, the prognosis for those who have gingivitis is good. Untreated, gingivitis can progress periodontal disease. Gingivitis is painless in the early stages, but may lead to bleeding gums and other oral problems. Bleeding gums are only one sign of gingivitis. Gums become red and swollen, teeth may become loose or may eventually fall out.

Gingivitis, when combined with receding gums, periodontal disease, and other conditions, can create serious health problems. Gingivitis almost always leads to bad breath, a serious social problem for many people , loose teeth and eventual tooth loss. If you have gingivitis, you need to take action to prevent gum disease or even worse. Studies show that gum disease has been linked to many other catastrophic illnesses including stoke and heart attacks. For more information, please look at our Your Health Section or Our Periodontal Blog.

Unless gingivitis is kept under control by tooth brushing,flossing and the use of antibacterial products, this condition will recur.

Treatment
Gingivitis can be treated by having your teeth professionally cleaned, followed by a strict oral hygiene regimen, including anti-bacterial rinses.

Left untreated, gingivitis can escalate into periodontitis. There are other factors that contribute to the disease, such as smoking, genetic tendencies, and diabetes. Periodontitis symptoms include those of gingivitis, a metallic taste in your mouth, receding gums, enlarged spaces between the gums and teeth, severe halitosis (bad breath), and even loose teeth (from loss of bone).

For more information on periodontics or to schedule an appointment please call one of offices today.

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Dr. Robert M. Zupnik and Dr. Dennis Winson are Certified Dental Specialists with the Institute of Advanced Laser Periodontal (LANAP) Laser Assisted Procedure.

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