Do You Know The Signs Of Gingivitis?

Numerous South Africans are affected by gingivitis, an infectious inflammatory disease that distresses the gums. Therefore, it is important to gain an awareness of the signs of gingivitis to achieve optimal oral health.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a common reversible disease of the oral cavity. Periodontal disease starts as untreated gingivitis, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. One of the primary signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease is inflammation. In fact, gingivitis along with periodontal disease are the two major inflammatory diseases that affect the periodontium (the tissues that support and surround the teeth). Periodontal disease has been associated with systemic complications, such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, and pre-term birth. There are many people that have gingivitis, yet are unaware or have no familiarity with its signs and symptoms.

Who Does Gingivitis Affect?

It is important for individuals to distinguish the signs of healthy and unhealthy gingiva, commonly referred to as gums. In the United States, gingivitis is most prevalent in American Indians, Alaska Natives and Mexican Americans. However, it can affect people of all age groups and genders.

What Causes It?

Plaque accumulation between the teeth and under the gingiva, caused by germs, is the primary factor in the development of gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gingiva. The body's immune system responds to infection, injury, or shields itself from irritation with an inflammatory response. The gingiva is no exception. The characteristics of inflammation are swelling, redness, heat and pain surrounding the affected area. Chronic inflammation can contribute to gingival enlargement, which may be exaggerated in individuals with genetic or drug-related systemic factors (e.g. cyclosporine, anticonvulsants and calcium channel blocking drugs). Other contributing factors include stress, pregnancy, puberty, inadequate nutrition, HIV infection, smoking, ageing, and hormonal fluctuations.

What Can I Do About It?

Gingivitis can be reversible with an effective home care routine that reduces plaque build-up. The adequate use of mechanical oral hygiene aids, such as toothbrushes, floss and antimicrobial mouth rinses, can be used to control plaque accumulation and help prevent gingivitis.

Signs of Healthy Gums

These are key indicators that your gums are healthy:

• Pale color or melanin pigmentation (found in highly pigmented ethnic groups)
• Firm and flat gum tissues
• Stippled texture
• Knife-edged or pyramidal papilla (gum tissue between teeth)
• Painless
• No bleeding.

Signs of Gingivitis

• Red or bluish red (chronic inflammation) gums
• Bleeding on provocation (when you brush or floss)
• Soft and spongy gums
• Loss of stippling (orange-peel appearance)
• Pus
• Inflammation (edema) or swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Receding gums
• Occasionally painful or painless gums.

When to See a Dentist

Regular check-ups are recommended to identify signs of gingivitis, tooth cavities, or other oral health conditions that could contribute to dental or systemic complications. It is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist if you notice any signs or symptoms of gingivitis. The chance of reversing gingivitis and preventing its progression to periodontal disease is greater when dental treatment is sought early. Compliancy is essential to restore your gums back to a state of health. The maintenance of good oral health is a great effort to keep the body healthy.