Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and the first stage of gum disease. This condition is easily reversible but can lead to more serious oral concerns if not treated early and correctly.
At Family & Spa Dentistry in Pennington, your dentist is able to spot gingivitis during a routine dental exam and recommend treatment to restore your oral health.
Most patients are unaware that they have gingivitis until they receive a professional teeth cleaning- or they begin to experience complex dental problems as a result of advanced gum disease.
Common signs and symptoms of gingivitis can include tender and bleeding gums, receding gums that make your teeth appear elongated, and persistent bad breath.
It is important to treat this condition early because gingivitis that is not treated may lead to periodontitis, which is a serious dental concern. Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that can damage the soft tissues and bone that supports the teeth, sometimes leading to tooth loss. Periodontitis has also been linked to a greater risk for or severity of systemic diseases such as diabetes because the gums are no longer providing an effective barrier for harmful bacteria entering the bloodstream.
Preventing gingivitis can be as simple as properly brushing and flossing your teeth and visiting the dentist regularly for check ups. This removes plaque and other debris left behind that causes tender, inflamed gums. Smoking, certain medications, and diabetes are risk factors that increase your chance of developing gingivitis- Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci or your dentist can make personalized recommendations for addressing lifestyle habits.
During a routine visit at Family & Spa Dentistry, you can expect to receive a full professional cleaning that includes screenings for dental concerns such as periodontitis. We have a variety of periodontal treatments that can improve mild and severe cases of gingivitis and periodontitis.
