This is the common disease that develops as the inflammation of the gums causing irritation and redness. This condition needs to be treated promptly to prevent the development of complications such as tooth loss and periodontitis.
Causes
Gingivitis can occur as the result of long-term plague deposits on the teeth which are made of food sediments and bacteria that accumulates. When the plague is not removed, it becomes hard deposit known as tartar which can irritate and inflame the gums. Some of the risk factors of developing gingivitis include uncontrolled diabetes, misaligned teeth or mouth appliances such as dentures or braces, pregnancy, poor oral hygiene, various infections and certain medications.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of gingivitis include swollen gums, bad breath, tender gums, mouth sores, bleeding easily with brushing or receding gums. When symptoms of gingivitis occur, it is important to treat it in order to prevent its progressing to periodontitis.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on the evaluation of the individual’s dental or medical history and with the examination of the teeth by the dentist who will seek to identify soft inflamed gums. In addition, plague and tartar may also be evident among the affected individuals. A close examination of the gums can identify whether the individual has gingivitis or periodontitis. Additional tests may in some cases be required such as dental x-rays to assess if the disease has spread further to the supporting structures of the teeth.
Treatment
Early identification of the condition and the prompt treatment can reverse the symptoms of gingivitis and prevent its progression to complications. In addition to treatment, good dental care is also recommended. Some of the treatment for gingivitis includes dental restoration which fixes the problems with misaligned teeth or other dental restorations that can make it difficult to remove the plague with regular brushing, in which case, the dentist can help fix this condition. In addition, other underlying conditions requires to be treated which may be the cause of gingivitis. The dental cleaning of the teeth can remove the plague by using various tools that can loosen this deposit. In addition, a professional cleaning of the teeth is usually recommended twice a year, fixing the misaligned teeth, replacing any orthodontic appliances and the use of antibacterial mouth rinses. The use of warm salt water can help with reducing the gum swelling or various over-the-counter anti-inflammation medications can be beneficial.
Complications
The untreated gingivitis can develop into more serious complications such as spreading to the bone or result in tooth loss. Trench mouth is the severe form of gingivitis that results in bleeding painful gums and ulcerations. The trench mouth can develop as the result of poor nutrition and poor standard of living.
References
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001056.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gingivitis/diagnosis-treatment/treatment/txc-20305835
https://www.perio.org/consumer/types-gum-disease.html
