Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums (gingiva) that commonly occurs because of films of bacteria that accumulate on the teeth – plaque. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth.
In some cases, patients may not even know they have it, because symptoms are mild but regular visits to Morrison Dental Associates convenient locations will help identify symptoms before the condition becomes more serious. Gingivitis can become a ongoing issue and should be addressed immediately.
What are the signs and symptoms of gingivitis?
A patient with gingivitis will have red and puffy gums, and they will most likely bleed when they brush their teeth. If you see any evidence of these symptoms, make an appointment at one of Morrison Dental Associates convenient locations immediately. Gingivitis may resolve with improved oral hygiene, but consult with your comprehensive oral healthcare provider at Morrison Dental Associates to be certain there are no lingering effects.
Other symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Gums are bright red or purple
- Gums are tender, and sometimes painful to the touch
- Gums bleed easily when brushing teeth or flossing
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Inflammation (swollen gums)
- Receding gums
- Soft gums
Treatment Options at Morrison Dental Associates
Gingivitis can be successfully reversed, and Morrison Dental Associates will treat you in the one of the practice’s convenient locations and provide you with after-care guidelines to continue treatment at home.
The Morrison Dental Associates oral healthcare team will remove plaque and tartar and recommend a periodic follow up with further cleaning if necessary. On occasion, dental problems like crooked teeth or poorly fitted crowns or bridges may make it necessary to repair teeth in order to be able to remove plaque and tartar.
Morrison Dental Associates encourages all patients to brush their teeth at least twice per day, floss their teeth at least once per day and regularly rinse their mouth at least once a day. Those preventative measures and regular visits to one of Morrison Dental Associates’ convenient locations will help you avoid gingivitis.