What Does Gingivitis Look Like?
It doesn’t necessarily take a dentist to spot gingivitis. However, if the infection has reached such a point that you are able to identify its signs and symptoms on your own, that means it is likely in an advanced stage. In such instances, call your dentist right away and make an appointment for as soon as possible.
Gingivitis is the ultimate result of food particles being allowed to linger in the mouth. When we eat, it is natural for particles of food to get stuck between our teeth and gums. This is not in and of itself a problem because by brushing and flossing at least twice a day – and by regularly visiting the dentist – we can remove these particles before they become problematic.
Our body naturally sends bacteria to break down the food particles which get caught in our mouth. While this is intended to help with digestion, these bacteria, in addition to the foods which they are meant to break down, must be removed in time. If they are not, they, along with the food particles, form a clear, sticky film between teeth and on the gums. This film is called plaque.
When left unchecked, plaque hardens, becoming what is known as tartar. Tartar is nearly impossible to remove without the use of dental tools which are typically only found in dentist’s offices. At this point, tartar stains are likely to become visible to the naked eye. Look for yellow or brown stains around your teeth.
But the infection’s visual elements truly come out once they have morphed into gingivitis. By then you will not only see that your teeth are stained, but you will also have dark red areas on your gums, which will be swollen and tender. They may bleed when you try to brush them. Eventually, they will recede, making your teeth appear larger than normal. And you may see pockets full of pus formulate between your teeth and gums.
There are also non-visual signs of gingivitis, such as chronic bad breath.
Needless to say, you would prefer to experience none of these. And the good news is that you don’t have to. If you brush and floss twice a day and visit your dentist a couple times a year, it is highly unlikely that you will have to deal with gingivitis or any of the conditions which lead up to it. If, however, you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you call your dentist right away and make an appointment for as soon as possible.