Do you have swollen, soft or irritated gums? Do your gums bleed easily or are they more tender than usual? If you are having gum problems you are among the nearly 90% of U.S. adults that have some form of gingivitis. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of periodontal or gum disease. These are not the only indicators that there may be a problem. If you have a receding gum line or the color of your gums has changed from normal, healthy pin to a dusty red you should call your dentist.
If you happen to be one of the 90% and chances are you are . . . you don’t need to be too alarmed, there is a silver lining to this news. When the beginning stage of gingivitis is detected early and treated properly, gingivitis can be stopped in its tracks and totally cured. It’s nice to know there is a disease out there that is 100% reversible. Good oral hygiene is the best thing you can do to prevent or reverse the symptoms of gingivitis. Daily brushing and flossing of your teeth alongside regularly scheduled professional dental cleanings can be the only steps needed to avoid this bothersome condition. If you develop gingivitis, it is important to seek the advice and treatment of a respected dentist. Untreated gingivitis can turn into advanced gum disease or periodontitis. Periodontitis happens to be the number one cause of tooth loss in adults.
Unfortunately untreated gingivitis can lead to a host of other health problems; it isn’t limited to irritated gums. Inflamed gums play host to harmful bacteria. Untreated plaque that is left on your teeth causes tarter. Tarter buildup constantly releases dangerous toxins. Gum disease is being linked to a host of other health problems like heart disease, Alzheimer’s and more. If gingivitis is detected early your dentist can develop a plan to eradicate the problem. You may be given an aggressive oral hygiene routine that includes meticulous daily brushing, daily flossing, antimicrobial tooth pastes and antimicrobial mouth washes.
Some experienced dentists like Mitzi Morris offer advanced periodontal treatments for severe cases of gingivitis or periodontitis. If you are worried that you may gingivitis call to schedule a dental exam, and being more proactive home dental hygiene immediately.