What is Gingivitis- Is It Painful?

You have heard about the various oral problem, but do you know what is Gingivitis. If yes, then this article is for you. Gingivitis isn’t a nice-sounding word, and it’s not a pleasant disease either. It is a mild and early form of periodontitis, an inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is typically not severe, and most adults are susceptible to it at least once in their life. However, if left untreated, it can become painful and, in some cases, cause tooth loss.

Symptoms

As gingivitis occurs within the mouth, it’s not something that should go unnoticed for too long and should be treated as soon as you see any of the following symptoms:

• gum recession
• a bad taste that won’t go away
• swollen or puffy gums
• bad breath
• tender or sensitive gums
• gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• sensitivity when chewing foods

Causes of gingivitis

Gingivitis comes down to having poor dental hygiene. Those who don’t brush morning and night or floss daily are much more susceptible to the disease.

In addition, those with inadequate nutrition, specifically a lack of vitamin C, and those who take medication for epileptic seizures are more likely to experience gingivitis. Finally, people who chew tobacco and those who smoke are at a higher risk.

How is it diagnosed?

If you start to display any symptoms of gingivitis, it’s time for a trip to the dentist. From there, a dentist will review your dental history and other contributing factors that may have caused symptoms. They will complete an examination of your teeth and gums, looking out for any signs of plaque and inflammation.

The dentist will also measure the pocket depth, which is the groove between your gums and teeth. In a regular healthy mouth, the pocket depth is 1 to 3mm, whereas, with cases of gingivitis, the depth can reach up to 4mm. X-rays are often also performed to check for bone loss from deeper pockets.

How to avoid Gingivitis

The simple solution for avoiding most dental problems is good oral hygiene. Gingivitis is no different. Make sure you brush your teeth in the morning and at night, and floss at least once daily. Investing in an electric toothbrush is another excellent way to avoid plaque buildup.

Additionally, regular dental visits are crucial. If you are one of those more susceptible to developing gingivitis, getting a professional clean is a great way to avoid plaque buildup. Finally, oil pulling can be an excellent addition to your dental hygiene routine.

It’s a method that’s been around for around 5,000 years. It is where you swish coconut oil in your mouth for 15 to 30 minutes and then spit it out. The process pulls out any toxins that are in your mouth. This method should not replace regular brushing but should be added to your daily routine.

How to treat gingivitis

There are many ways to treat gingivitis. Antiseptic mouthwash is a great over-the-counter solution. It can be used regularly if you know you are susceptible to the disease.

Gingivitis can also be treated with oral antibiotics for persistent cases. Doxycycline is an antibiotic that helps to keep enzymes from causing tooth damage. Tooth removal may be needed if gingivitis is left untreated and forms into periodontitis.

If you experience any symptoms of gingivitis, reach out to your dentist as soon as possible and have your teeth professionally checked. If you want to try home remedies, get your dentist’s approval first.

Also, read on to learn all about laser dentistry.

Takeaway:

Gingivitis is typically not severe, and most adults are susceptible to it at least once in their life. However, if left untreated, it can become painful and, in some cases, cause tooth loss.

The simple solution for avoiding Gingivitis is good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth in the morning and at night, and floss at least once daily.

Antiseptic mouthwash is a great over-the-counter solution. It can be used regularly if you know you are susceptible to the disease.