Gingivitis and gum disease are common dental terms that most people often used interchangeably. But according to dental experts, gingivitis is actually the early stage and mild form of gum disease. The condition is generally triggered by lack of proper dental care, which encourages the development of plaque and eventually, tartar.
Moreover, gum disease is inflammation and infection that damages the tissues supporting teeth. In gingivitis, gums become pinkish, swollen, inflamed and bleed when brushing the teeth. Also, most people can acquire a mild case of gingivitis some period of their lifetime. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to a severe gum disease called periodontitis.
Common Symptoms of Gingivitis
If you experience or notice the following symptoms, then it is time for you to visit your dentist for the inspection of your gum health. These includes:
- Gums easily bleed despite the gentle brushing of the teeth
- Color of gums changes to bright red or red-purple
- Swollen gums
- Mouth sores
- Glossy appearance to gums
Solutions to Gingivitis
Exams and Tests
To know if you have gingivitis, your dentist will start by examining your mouth and teeth and look for soft, swollen, pinkish or red-purple gums. Plaque and tartar are usually seen at the base of the teeth. To determine if your gums suffer from gingivitis or periodontitis, your dentist will use a probe so he or she can inspect your gums closely. Often, more examinations are required but with the availability of dental x-rays, your dentist can tell if the disease has extended over the supporting structures of the teeth.
Dental Treatments
Reducing the inflammation is the goal of your dentist. In cleaning the teeth, your dentist or dental hygienist may use different tools to eliminate the deposits from the teeth. After the dental cleaning, careful oral hygiene is a must. They will also teach you how to brush and floss in the most correct way. In addition, your dentist may also recommend the following:
- Regular professional dental cleaning for severe cases of gum disease
- Antibacterial mouthwashes
- Fixing of misaligned teeth
- Replacing dental or orthodontic appliances
Best-quality Gum Care in Smiles First
Good thing that at this stage, gingivitis is still reversible. Though this is the case, treatments are highly recommended so it won’t develop into a much more life-threatening gum disease. If the disease is not paid with serious attention, your oral health and general health might be at risk in the long run. To get healthy gums and admirable oral health, visit your trusted Northmead dentist here at My Local Dentists Northmead. Our outstanding dental services include treatment for Gum Disease along with the procedures that uphold the health of your mouth, teeth and gums. Having a healthy and fine-looking gums make a great difference for your overall oral health wellness.
Call us today to know more about our PAY NO GAP Offer, which includes: Check-up, Scale & Clean, Fluoride, and X-rays. If you are with a Private Health Fund, we can provide you with NO GAP preventive treatments! Book online or call (02) 9630 9996.
(We are located in Northmead and serve patients from Northmead, Westmead, North Parramatta, Wentworthville, Winston Hills, Old Toongabbie and from all Sydney metro areas.)