The gums are the mucous membrane that surrounds the teeth and protects them from oral infections and inflammations; however, many people may experience problems such as gingivitis, which is considered one of the most common oral health problems.
This problem results from the accumulation of plaque on the teeth, which leads to irritation, swelling, and bleeding of the gums.
In this article, Dr. Mohammad Khaled Nofal, specialist in dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants, explains the causes of gingivitis, its accompanying symptoms, and the importance of treating and preventing it to ensure good oral health and preserve the beauty and radiance of the smile.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is considered the first stage of gum disease, as it develops when plaque, tartar, and bacteria accumulate on the teeth and along the gum line.
Consequently, when plaque is not removed regularly through daily cleaning and tartar removal at the doctor's, this may lead to redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums.
It is worth noting that this condition is very common, as nearly half of adults over the age of 30 are more likely to develop some type of gum disease, specifically gingivitis.
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Who Gets Gingivitis?
This condition often appears in people who are:
Males are more likely to develop gingivitis compared to females.
Those who live in poor areas and cannot obtain the necessary care.
Smokers, as smoking weakens the body's ability to fight infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms are not always clearly evident in the early stages, so some people may be affected without knowing it, and over time the symptoms may develop to include:
Persistent bad breath that does not go away, even after brushing the teeth.
Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing the teeth.
A change in the color of the gums to a bright or dark red.
Redness and swelling of the gums.
Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods.
Toothache when chewing food or biting.
Causes of Gingivitis
This condition occurs as a result of the body's inflammatory response to the plaque and tartar on the teeth. When plaque and tartar remain on the teeth for a long time, the gums become irritated, red, and swollen.
It is worth noting that some people may be more prone to developing gingivitis due to the following:
Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy or the menstrual cycle.
Not taking good care of the teeth.
Inappropriate dental treatments, such as: fillings, bridges, dental implants, or veneers.
Medical conditions such as certain viral and fungal infections.
Advancing age.
Dry mouth.
Crooked teeth that are difficult to clean.
Diabetic patients.
A family history of gum disease.
Smoking.
Certain medications, such as:
Epilepsy treatment medications.
Some cancer treatments.
Calcium channel blockers for blood pressure.
Birth control pills.
How Can Plaque Turn into Gingivitis?
Through the following stages:
Plaque Forms on the Teeth
Plaque is a sticky, odorless layer, made up mainly of the bacteria that accumulate on the teeth after eating starches and sugars in food.
Plaque Turns into Tartar
Plaque that remains on the teeth below the gum line may harden and turn into tartar, and tartar, also known as calculus, then gathers bacteria.
In addition, tartar provides protection for the plaque layer, leading to the accumulation of more bacteria that ultimately irritate the gum line.
The Gums Become Inflamed and Swollen
The gums are the part surrounding the base of the teeth, so the longer plaque and tartar are present on the teeth, the greater the irritation in the gum area.
Over time, the gums begin to suffer from swelling and bleed easily, which is known as gingivitis.
Methods of Diagnosing Gingivitis
The diagnosis is made by the doctor through the following examinations:
The Routine Examination
The doctor reviews the medical history of the patient's teeth and the conditions that may contribute to the symptoms.
In addition, they examine the teeth, gums, mouth, and tongue for irritation or swelling present in the gums.
Dental X-ray Imaging
The teeth are imaged with X-rays to check for bone loss in the areas where the dentist notices deeper pockets.
Other Tests as Needed
The dentist may recommend a medical evaluation to check for other health conditions if the cause is not clear.
The dentist may also refer the patient to a periodontist if the gum disease is at an advanced stage.
Methods of Treatment
The treatment aims to control the infection and restore the health of the teeth and gums, as Dr. Mohammad Nofal will thoroughly clean your teeth to remove harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar, through one of the following treatments:
Scaling or Root Planing
The doctor may recommend root planing to treat gingivitis, which is similar to routine teeth cleaning but reaches a greater depth beneath the gums, where tartar deposits and bacteria are removed from the tooth surface and beneath the gums.
In addition to smoothing the surfaces of the tooth roots to prevent bacteria and plaque from adhering and accumulating again.
This procedure may be carried out using instruments, a laser, or an ultrasonic device.
Other Restorations Required for the Teeth
Crooked teeth, crowns, bridges, or others lead to gum irritation and difficulty in removing plaque, especially during daily oral care.
If the patient's dental problems or dental restorations play a role in the gingivitis, the dentist may recommend treating those problems.
Medications
The dentist may recommend some pain-relieving medications, such as: ibuprofen, as it helps reduce pain and inflammation.
Antimicrobial Mouthwash
Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash helps get rid of the bacteria that cause gingivitis.
Surgical Procedures
In very advanced cases of gum disease, the patient may need surgical procedures such as:
Gum grafting: to cover the exposed roots.
Gum flap surgery: to remove the damaged gum tissue.
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Unlike the other stages of gum disease, gingivitis can be treated as long as its symptoms are detected early enough, so if you notice symptoms of gingivitis, you should schedule an appointment with the dentist and immediately begin practicing better oral hygiene at home.
Complications of Not Treating It
Without treatment, this condition can worsen and turn into a more serious stage of gum disease, namely periodontitis, which involves the loss of bone in the jaw and around the teeth.
Read also: What is laser gum contouring surgery
Methods of Prevention
Dr. Mohammad Nofal offers you some tips that help you prevent developing this problem, and they include the following:
Clean your teeth well twice a day, once when you wake up and once before going to sleep.
Use floss at least once every day to remove bacteria and food debris stuck between your teeth.
Try to stay away from smoking and other tobacco products, as they contribute to gingivitis.
Try to limit foods and drinks that contain alcohol and excess sugar.
Visit the dentist at least once a year for check-ups and routine teeth cleanings.
Is Gingivitis Contagious?
Although experts agree that it is not contagious in itself, scientifically the bacteria that cause gingivitis are transmitted from one person to another through saliva-to-saliva contact.
In the end, caring for the gums is not only for the beauty of the smile but for preserving the health of the mouth and the body in general, as gingivitis is a common problem that can lead to serious complications if it is not dealt with properly.
Always remember that prevention is best, but when gingivitis occurs, early diagnosis and effective treatment can return you to the path of health and comfort once again.
References:
Professional, C. C. M. (n.d.-n). Gingivitis. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10950-gingivitis-and-periodontal-disease-gum-disease
Gingivitis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. (2023, November 16). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gingivitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354453
Newman, T. (2023, November 30). Causes and treatment of gingivitis. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/241721
