Gingivitis- Causes symptoms and treatment

--Types of gingivitis--

-There are two main categories of gingival diseases:

Dental plaque-induced gingival disease: this can be caused by plaque, systemic factors, medications, or malnutrition.

Non-plaque induced gingival lesions: this can be caused by a specific bacterium, virus, or fungus. It might also be caused by genetic factors, systemic conditions (including allergic reactions and certain illnesses), wounds, or reactions to foreign bodies (such as dentures). Alternatively, no cause might be found.
What causes gingivitis?

-The accumulation of plaque and tartar

The most common cause of gingivitis is the accumulation of bacterial plaque between and around the teeth; the plaque triggers an immune response, which, in turn, can eventually lead to the destruction of gingival (gum) tissue. It may also, eventually, lead to further complications, including the loss of teeth.

-Dental plaque

Dental plaque is a biofilm that accumulates naturally on the teeth. It is usually formed by colonizing bacteria that are trying to stick to the smooth surface of a tooth. Some experts believe that these bacteria might help protect the mouth from the colonization of harmful microorganisms. However, dental plaque can also cause tooth decay, and periodontal problems such as gingivitis and chronic periodontitis, a gum infection.

When plaque is not removed adequately, it can harden into calculus (tartar - it has a yellow color) at the base of the teeth, near the gums. Calculus is harder to remove, and can only be removed professionally.

Plaque and tartar eventually irritate the gums, this eventually causes inflammation of the part of the gums around the base of the teeth. This means that the gums might easily bleed.

--Signs and symptoms of gingivitis--

In mild cases of gingivitis, there may be no discomfort or noticeable symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of gingivitis might 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 for gingivitis

If the patient is diagnosed early on, and treatment is prompt and proper, gingivitis can be successfully reversed.

Treatment involves care by a dental professional, and follow-up procedures carried out by the patient at home.

Gingivitis care with a dental professional:

Plaque and tartar are removed. This is known as scaling. Some patients may find scaling uncomfortable, especially if tartar build-up is extensive, or the gums are very sensitive.

The dental professional explains to the patient the importance of oral hygiene, and how to effectively brush their teeth and floss.

Periodically, they may follow up on the patient, with more frequent cleanings if necessary.

It is also important to fix teeth so that oral hygiene can be done effectively.

Some dental problems, such as crooked teeth, badly fitted crowns or bridges, may make it harder to properly remove plaque and tartar (they may also irritate the gums).