Gingivitis is a very common gum disease. Studies have found that around 50 percent of adults above 30 years of age suffer from gingivitis.
However, what’s surprising is that 9 out of 10 individuals won’t even know they suffer from the disease!
This common gum disease is caused by a naturally occurring plague in the mouth. The bacteria associated with it irritate and inflame the gums. This might be a common and curable disease; it can worsen when left untreated.
The concerning fact is untreated gingivitis can worsen to become another severe gum disease called periodontitis. This, in turn, can cause loss of teeth in the long run.
Adults who suffer from vitamin C deficiency or smoke frequently are prone to contracting gingivitis. Other than that, men are more likely to get gingivitis than women.
Now let’s understand how to know if you are suffering from gingivitis.
How Do You Know If You Have Gingivitis? What Are The Symptoms
Gingivitis is completely curable if diagnosed in the first stage. The symptoms can vary in intensity depending on the stage of gingivitis you are suffering from.
The following are the primary symptoms that you can look out for to understand if you are a victim too:
- Swelling And Tender Gums
This is caused due to the irritation of the gums by the causative bacteria. Swollen gums are the prime symptom of gingivitis.
- Bleeding
Your gums might bleed even during the simplest of activities like brushing and flossing. The bacteria make your gums sensitive, hence biting hard food becomes difficult, and your gum bleeds.
- Increased Reddish Tinge
Your gums will look red, swollen, and tender if you are suffering from gingivitis.
- Loose Teeth Or Long Appearance.
Your teeth might seem longer if you have contracted the disease. This phenomenon is called the gum recession. Your gums recede from your teeth, causing this situation.
- Unpleasant Odor
Finally, bad breath can also indicate gingivitis. This bad breath occurs due to the constant activity of bacteria in your mouth.
Is Gingivitis Reversible?
Early detection of periodontal disease has the benefit of making treatment simpler.
Regular dental cleanings and examinations might aid in treating gingivitis early.
Hence, with the proper maintenance of dental hygiene, gingivitis can be cured. In between all your daily chores, you must take proper care of your teeth and gums.
However, as mentioned before, gingivitis can develop into a more serious gum disease if it is left untreated. This gum condition weakens the supporting tissues around your teeth. If you don’t want to lose all your teeth, take proper action today!
Is Gingivitis Infectious?
Gingivitis bacteria can spread from one person to another. Scientists have concluded that gingivitis is not contagious in and of itself. However, individuals who have the illness can transmit bacteria through saliva-to-saliva contact.
Hence, sharing utensils won’t likely result in gingivitis. However, you are more likely to have gingivitis if you have saliva-to-saliva exposure from anyone who has it. This is particularly relevant if you’ve got poor oral hygiene.
Is Gingivitis Curable?
Prompt detection of gingivitis can be completely cured. This is unlike the other phases of gum disease, which have adverse impacts on your teeth and gums.
However, if your gingivitis becomes severe, you can incur permanent damage. This is a long-term adverse effect that causes a chain reaction of oral health problems.
How Can You Lower Your Chance Of Getting Gingivitis?
You can lower your risk of developing gingivitis by adopting some simple measures:
● Brush your teeth properly twice a day. You can brush once in the morning and once before going to sleep.
● Your blood sugar levels must be kept in check. If you are diabetic, your chances of having gingivitis increase. Hence, follow proper advice from your doctor for the same.
● Avoid using tobacco products or smoking. Also, cut down on your alcohol consumption. Avoid carbonated drinks and any other beverages that contain excess sugar.
● To get rid of microorganisms between your teeth, floss daily.
● For checks, visit the dentist at least once a year. Also, if you feel you have gingivitis, make sure to get it checked by your dentist instead of neglecting it.
● Your gingivitis may be hereditary. You may be more susceptible to having gum disease if your family members suffer the same.
Conclusion
Hence, gingivitis is a very common and curable disease. However, it might grow into something severe if it is not taken proper care of.
To make sure you treat your gum disease, identify your symptoms and consult your dentist as soon as possible. Other than that, maintenance of proper dental hygiene through regular brushing and flossing is extremely important.
