What Are the Warning Signs of Gingivitis?

Do your gums bleed easily when flossing your teeth? You might not be pushing too hard. You can be experiencing a symptom of gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 50% of adults over the age of 30 have a form of gum disease. Not only is the infection a cause of tooth loss, but it can also harm your health. Here’s how to spot the early signs of gingivitis to stop the infection in its tracks.

What is Gingivitis?

Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup caused by poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, which causes:

• Swollen or inflamed gums.
• Bright or dark red gums.
• Gums that bleed easily.
• Tender gums.
• Bad breath.

Gingivitis is easy to treat with scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning. Your dentist will use special dental instruments to remove tartar from above and below the gum line and smooth your tooth roots. With changes to your oral hygiene habits and regular dental care, you can treat the infection.

Risks of Untreated Gingivitis

If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to advanced periodontitis, which can cause irreversible damage. The infection can damage the supporting structures of your teeth, ultimately leading to tooth loss. 

Bacteria from gum disease may also enter your bloodstream, wreaking havoc on your health. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, respiratory illness, Alzheimer’s, and many other complications.

How to Prevent Gingivitis

Although gum disease is common, it is preventable. Brushing alone won’t prevent gingivitis because your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in your mouth. Up to 40% of your teeth surfaces can be left uncleaned. Daily flossing is the only way to clean areas your toothbrush couldn’t reach.

Use high-quality dental floss that has earned the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Carefully floss between each tooth and around the gum line at least once daily.

You can also use a waterflosser, which emits a gentle stream of water to remove food residue and plaque.

Don’t forget to visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. If you spot any signs of gingivitis between your regular appointments, don’t wait to contact your dentist. They’ll get you into the office quickly to restore your gum health.

About the Practice

Harris Parkway Dental Care offers excellent and passionate dental services for Fort Worth, TX and the surrounding communities. With their expert team of dental hygienists, they provide a wide collection of treatments, from dental checkups to emergency care. If you want to know more about your dental hygienist, visit our website or call us at 817-423-2223.