Gingivitis is an entirely treatable condition that your dentist will see every day. It starts as gum tissue inflammation but can progress to periodontitis. If you let it get to that point, you can lose teeth, have infected gums, and a range of other oral issues.
The leading player in gingivitis is plaque. The bacteria in your mouth gets together with the food you eat, especially sugar, and creates a layer over your teeth. If you don’t brush twice per day, that plaque hardens and forms a protective barrier for the bacteria in your mouth. If you don’t act fast or see your dentist for regular cleans and check-ups, that plaque build-up can turn into gingivitis.
What Are the Symptoms of Gingivitis?
Many people don’t know they have gingivitis, because the early stages are painless and subtle. As it worsens, more symptoms come to light. You might have swollen gum tissue that’s tender and red, and your gums might even bleed. With pockets of bacteria and food between your teeth, you may also have bad breath.
It’s not uncommon with gingivitis for your gums to change color. They may appear redder or slightly purple. If you have any of these symptoms, see your local Yokine dentist. They can help you to come up with a plan going forward.