|
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums and is the mildest form of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is usually caused by bacteria that accumulate in the spaces between the gums and the teeth. Over the years, the gum inflammation can lead to bone loss around the teeth. Since the bones hold the teeth in place, this condition can eventually lead to falling of teeth.
Following are some of the symptoms of gingivitis
• Swollen, soft gums – The inflammation that occurs as a result of gingivitis leads to swelling of the gum tissue making it soft to touch. If you notice that your gums are swollen or soft to the touch, you should consult with your dentist. If left untreated, the swelling could spread to your cheeks and jaws leading to more serious complications.
• Bright red or red-purple gums – Normal, healthy gums are typically pink or brown in color and firm to the touch. With gingivitis, the gums begin to lose their normal structure and color. The gums begin to recede and take on a beefy red, inflamed color. If you notice that your gums look red or feel soft when you touch them, you may have gingivitis.
• Painful gums – The inflammation that occurs as a result of gingivitis leads to painful gums. This pain could range from a mild ache to severe, throbbing pain. You could feel pain in your gums when you brush or touch them. If your gums are painful when touched, check with your dentist.
• Bleeding gums – One of the most common and obvious symptoms of gingivitis is bleeding gums. Your gums will tend to bleed when you brush or floss them. If you notice bleeding when you are brushing your teeth, you may have gingivitis.
• Receding gum line – A gum line that is moved farther away from teeth is a strong indication of gingivitis. The bacteria in the plaque and tartar tend to erode the tissue in the gums and you will notice that your gums are moving farther away from your teeth.
• Bad Breath – The bacteria accumulating in your teeth and gums could cause your mouth to smell bad. If you notice that morning breath does not go away with regular brushing and cleaning of your tongue, you may have to check with your dentist about the possibility of gingivitis being the cause of your bad breath.
Typically, the symptoms of gingivitis
are mild and easy to ignore and most people are not even aware that
they have a problem. But ignoring the signs could lead to more
serious complications like periodontitis and eventual tooth loss.
Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups will go a
long way in ensuring that you have strong, healthy teeth for life.
|
