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 the Causes of Gingivitis?

M.C. Huguelet
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 2,260
Share

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease which can cause the gums to become inflamed, sore, and red, and to bleed easily. The causes of gingivitis can be traced to the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, although there are several secondary factors which can make certain individuals especially susceptible to the condition. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious forms of gum disease and even tooth loss. Luckily, the condition can be easily eliminated with help from the dentist and a bit of personal discipline.

The main causes of gingivitis are plaque and tartar, substances made from a combination of food particles and the bacteria which are naturally present in the mouth. When food and bacteria initially combine, they form plaque, a sticky material that clings to the teeth and gathers at the gum line. If plaque is not removed from the teeth, it turns into tartar, a hardened substance which can become deposited beneath the gum line. Plaque and tartar can both irritate the gums, leading to outbreaks of gingivitis.

There are also several potential secondary causes of gingivitis, or factors which can increase one’s risk of developing the condition. Behaviors which encourage the growth of plaque are perhaps the most prevalent secondary causes of gingivitis. These include failure to brush the teeth regularly, eating sugary foods, and smoking. Other possible secondary causes of gingivitis include taking certain medications and undergoing hormonal changes, both which can lead to gum irritation.

If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into more serious mouth problems. It can progress into an advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis. This disease can affect not only the gum tissue, but also the bone beneath the gums, often causing unsightly recession and discoloration of the gum tissue and even tooth loss.

Luckily, gingivitis can be easily eliminated with a combination of dental attention and good mouth care habits. Generally, the condition will gradually subside once irritating buildup has been removed from the teeth. Therefore, those who suspect gingivitis should see a dentist as soon as possible for thorough plaque and tartar removal. To prevent new buildups from forming, it is important to continually practice good dental hygiene. The teeth should be brushed at least two times each day and flossed at least once a day, and every individual should visit his or her dentist for a check-up at least once every 12 months.

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.
M.C. Huguelet
By M.C. Huguelet
Cate Huguelet, a Chicago-based freelance writer with a passion for storytelling, crafts engaging content for a wide range of publications, including WiseGeek. With degrees in Writing and English, she brings a unique perspective and a commitment to clean, precise copy that resonates with readers. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
M.C. Huguelet
M.C. Huguelet
Cate Huguelet, a Chicago-based freelance writer with a passion for storytelling, crafts engaging content for a wide...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-causes-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.