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Gingivitis

Gingivitis, or gum disease, is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth from saliva that contains bacteria. If plaque is not removed regularly by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and can only be removed during a professional cleaning appointment. When bacteria build up along the gum line, the gum tissue becomes inflamed and red in color. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis and even tooth loss!

Like periodontal disease, gingivitis is caused by bacterial accumulation in your mouth due to improper cleaning. If you do not continue to remove bacteria and their byproducts through regular brushing and flossing, they can spread below the gum line and cause irritation and inflammation as the immune system attempts to fight them off.

How common is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a very common condition, and it has been estimated that nearly all adults have experienced it at some point in their life. The good news is that it is preventable and treatable with regular brushing and flossing. If left untreated, however, it can lead to serious complications that affect your oral health as well as your overall health.

If you begin to notice symptoms of bleeding, redness or swelling in your gums, then you should schedule a visit with Legacy Dental Clinic as soon as possible. These symptoms can be an early warning sign of gingivitis and you should respond accordingly in order to avoid further problems. Our dentist, Dr. Jennifer Nguyen will work with you to determine the cause of the swelling and offer treatment that may include professional cleanings and improved at-home care in order to treat the condition and prevent its recurrence. We can also provide tips for modifying your oral hygiene routine so that you can prevent future bouts of gingivitis and other oral health conditions.

Symptoms of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums that can also affect the underlying bone supporting the teeth. It causes swelling, redness and bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth. You may also notice that your gums are receding from the teeth. While these symptoms may seem minor, untreated gingivitis can lead to more severe oral health issues and even tooth loss. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with our dentist, Dr. Jennifer Nguyen, as soon as possible. Treatment for gingivitis is usually focused on regular professional cleanings to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar. 

How is Gingivitis diagnosed?

The first step towards treating gingivitis is diagnosing it. Typically, your dentist will inspect your gums to check for signs of redness and inflammation. They may also inspect your teeth and gums for plaque and tartar buildup. X-rays may also be taken to get a better look at your teeth and below your gum line. These images are then compared to previous x-rays to see if there has been any change or progression in the health of your mouth.

Once it has been confirmed that you have gingivitis, you will likely be provided with at-home care instructions. This typically involves brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and receiving regular teeth cleanings and checkups from your dentist. Your dentist may recommend that you use an antibacterial mouthwash to help treat the inflammation that accompanies gingivitis. Additionally, you may be referred to a specialist who performs periodontal surgery if non-surgical options do not work.


Book your professional dental cleaning today with Dr. Jennifer Nguyen at Legacy Dental Clinic by calling us at (825) 467-8888! Located at 4224 Gateway Blvd NW Edmonton, AB.