6 Warning Signs of Gingivitis (and How to Reverse It!)

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 50% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can be difficult to detect. Treating gingivitis is key to preventing periodontal disease, but how do you treat something you don’t even know you have? Let’s discuss six warning signs of gingivitis (gum disease) and how dentists can reverse it.

1.   Inflamed Gums

Plaque and tartar accumulation can wear away tooth enamel and irritate the gum tissue. When the gums are irritated, you’ll notice that they are red, swollen, and tender to the touch.

2.    Bleeding Gums

Are you noticing that your gums bleed easily when you’re brushing and flossing? In some cases, this might be brushing or flossing too hard. However, the more likely reason is gingivitis.

3.    Long Teeth

It’s not normal for permanent, adult teeth to seem as they are growing. If your teeth appear to be getting longer, then your gums might actually be pulling away from the teeth. As bacteria flourishes, it damages gum tissue. In turn, the gums will begin to appear shorter (recession).

4.   Bad Breath

The bacteria that cause gum disease also causes halitosis (foul-smelling breath). If you notice your breath worsening or a constant bad taste in your mouth, then this is likely a sign of developing periodontal disease.

5.   Gum Pockets

Because gum disease weakens soft tissue, it can cause pockets to form between the teeth and the gums. When this happens, you may notice that food particles and debris can get easily trapped in the pockets. Trapped debris could cause a serious, painful infection.

6.   Abscess

When the gums get severely infected, it can create a painful abscess (pocket of pus) on the gingival tissue. An abscess that goes untreated could spread the infection to the bloodstream, which can lead to life-threatening sepsis. For this reason, abscesses are classified as dental emergencies. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect that you have an abscess.

How to Reverse Gingivitis

Fortunately, the early stage of gum disease can be reversed with proper oral care and professional intervention. Here are some ways to combat and reverse gum disease:

• Brush twice a day: Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice daily will help prevent the build-up of plaque that causes gum disease. Many dentists recommend investing in an electric toothbrush, as they are clinically proven to clean the gums and teeth better than a manual toothbrush.
• Floss daily: Flossing at least once a day helps remove the plaque build-up in between the teeth and under the gumline.
• Antiseptic mouthwash: Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash helps remove the harmful bacteria that cause gum disease.
• Professional teeth cleaning: A professional dental cleaning thoroughly removes the plaque on the teeth. By scheduling professional cleanings twice a year, you’ll prevent gum disease development.
• Scaling and root planing: If your gums are beginning to recede, consider scaling and root planing. This treatment involves removing plaque and tartar below the gum line and smoothing the tooth root (which helps the gums reattach to the tooth).

Meet with a Trusted Dentist in Visalia, CA

Gingivitis can be hard to detect if you don’t notice the signs. Instead of guessing, meet with a trusted dentist with experience in reversing and managing periodontal conditions. Dr. Erik Swanson and his skilled dental team help patients in Visalia, CA by diagnosing, treating, and preventing gum disease. Don’t wait until gingivitis turns into irreversible, damaging periodontal disease–schedule a professional dental cleaning today. Call us at (559) 732-4543 or request an appointment online.