We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Common Signs of Gingivitis?

Dan Cavallari
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 6,082
Share

Signs of gingivitis are often readily apparent upon inspection of the mouth. Red, swollen gums are a good indication that gingivitis may be present. They may appear puffy or generally unhealthy, and can sometimes become painful. If the gums become sensitive, this may be another one of the signs of gingivitis. One of the most common signs of gingivitis is bleeding from the gums when brushing the teeth or flossing. While these are some of the most common signs of gingivitis, there are other indications that this gum disease may be present.

Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth are both common signs of gingivitis. The gum disease is caused by a bacteria called plaque that coats the teeth and gums, so without good oral hygiene, one might encounter a bad taste or bad breath due to the bacteria building up in the mouth. Gingivitis can cause gums to recede, thereby allowing pockets to form between the teeth. Plaque and food can work their way into these pockets, further advancing the gingivitis and exacerbating the symptoms.

Plaque buildup can be prevented to a point by regular brushing and flossing, but sometimes plaque can harden beyond the capabilities of the toothbrush. Regular dentist visits are therefore necessary, as the specialized tools a dentist uses are stronger than the toothbrush and can remove hardened plaque that brushing and flossing will miss. Further, regular visits to the dentist will ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of gingivitis, should it occur. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease and is therefore the most easily treatable, since it has not affected the bones or the tissue that connects bones to the gums. If left untreated, the gum disease will advance and worsen.

To prevent or counteract gingivitis, it is important to brush one's teeth twice daily, or after every meal. One should floss daily as well to prevent plaque and food from building up between teeth. Smoking can further cause damage to teeth, so if possible, smoking should be avoided. A healthy diet that promotes strong teeth and oral health is also necessary to prevent or counteract the signs of gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a more serious condition that attacks the soft tissue of the gums. Periodontitis can promote tooth loss, increase the risk of heart attack, and increase the risk of stroke.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Dan Cavallari
By Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-common-signs-of-gingivitis.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.