Gingivitis
Gingivitis Treatment in Roseville
Gingivitis
Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums is an unfortunately common dental disease that affects the gums. The one good thing about it is that it’s the beginning stage of a more serious gum disease and can be reversed through our dental services Roseville.
What Causes It?
The condition is caused by plaque that has accumulated on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film made of food particles, mucus and bacteria. As the bacteria eat the tiny particles of food, they release an acid that eats into the tooth enamel that later attacks the gums.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
The symptoms of this gum disease are gums that appear red, soft and swollen. The person may notice streaks of blood in the sink when they brush their teeth. Their gums may also bleed when they eat, and they may also have bad breath. A few people develop a fever.
People Who Are at Risk
Anyone can get gingivitis, but people who are most at risk include:
- People who do not brush or floss their teeth regularly or properly.
- Malnourished people. These people can either eat too much sugary or starchy foods or have vitamin deficiencies.
- Pregnant Women. Female hormones can also make non-pregnant women susceptible to gum disease.
- Smokers
- Diabetics
- People with autoimmune disorders such as lupus
The condition can also be a side effect of a reaction to drugs such as barbiturates.
Treatment For Gingivitis
At Ace Dental Roseville, we help address inflamed and swollen gums before they worsen. Treatment involves professionally cleaning teeth with scrapers or planers to remove hardened plaque (tartar), especially if it extends to tooth roots. X-rays may also be taken to check for bone loss in the jaw. In some cases, fluoride mouthwashes and antibiotics (oral or topical) are prescribed to eliminate bacteria.
At-Home Care for Gum Health
Much of the treatment for gingivitis can be managed at home. Patients should:
- Brush teeth at least twice daily, or after every meal, using a soft-bristled, electric, or sonic toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup.
- Clean their tongue and roof of the mouth, as these areas harbor bacteria.
- Floss teeth daily, optionally followed by oral irrigation for thorough particle removal.
- Maintain a healthy diet and consider vitamin supplements (Vitamins C, D, and minerals like calcium) to support dental health.
- Quit smoking, as it can worsen gum inflammation by potentially drying the mouth or weakening the immune system.
Early stage gum inflammation almost always responds well to these combined measures.