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Gingivitis is a bacterial infection in the gum that can progress to a serious condition. See how to prevent

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Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gum caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can progress to a more serious infection known as periodontitis.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are the main causes of tooth loss in adults, according to American Dental Association. It is necessary to prevent dental infections, as in addition to being harmful to health, they end up costing a lot. Understand what causes gingivitis, how to prevent and treat the disease.

what causes gingivitis

The gum holds the teeth in a deep part that we don't see. In this part, below the edge of the gums, there are small spaces called furrows. In these spaces, food and bacterial plaque can accumulate, facilitating the appearance of infections.

Plaque is a biofilm of bacteria that constantly forms on the surface of teeth. As plaque grows, it hardens and becomes tartar. When plaque grows below the gum line, an infection can develop that, if left untreated, can separate the gums from the teeth. This causes damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. The tooth may become loose and unstable. If the infection progresses, there may be tooth loss or the need for tooth removal.

Risk Factors for Gingivitis

The risk factors for gingivitis are:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco;
• Diabetes;
• Medicines such as oral contraceptives, anticonvulsants, steroids, calcium channel blockers and chemotherapy;
• Crooked teeth;
• Poorly fitted dental appliances;
• Pregnancy;
• Genetics;
• Compromised immunity, as in the case of AIDS

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What are the symptoms of gingivitis

Many people are unaware that they have gingivitis. It is possible to have a diseased gum without experiencing any symptoms. However, gingivitis can present symptoms such as:

• Red, soft or swollen gums;
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing;
• Gingiva away from teeth;
• Tooth loss;
• Change in the fit of teeth when biting (malocclusion);
• I put it between teeth and gums;
• Pain when chewing;
• Sensitive teeth;
• Partial dentures that no longer fit;
• Bad breath that doesn't go away with brushing.
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How to Diagnose Gingivitis

During the dental appointment, the gums will be examined with a small ruler. This test shows whether there is inflammation. A normal depth is one to three millimeters. Your dentist may also order x-rays to check for bone loss.

If there is a diagnosis of gingivitis, the person can be referred to a periodontist, who is a dentist who specializes in the treatment of gum diseases, such as gingivitis itself.

How to treat gingivitis

To treat gingivitis, practice proper oral hygiene, reduce tobacco consumption and control diabetes. Other treatments include:

• Deep dental cleaning with the dentist;
• Antibiotic drugs;
• Surgery;
• Home remedies. To learn about various home remedy options for gingivitis, take a look at the article: "Ten home remedy options for gingivitis".

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How to prevent gingivitis?

Gingivitis can be avoided with proper oral hygiene. Maintaining a balanced diet, visiting your dentist regularly, flossing daily, and brushing your teeth at least twice a day also help prevent gingivitis.

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