If you can see your gums bleed when you brush your teeth and rinse afterwards, it is almost certain that you have gingivitis. Other signs are that the gum edge is redder than further up the gum, and perhaps that edge is slightly thick and swollen. Sometimes there is pain associated with gingivitis, but this is usually in the very late stages of the disease. Contact your local Dentist in Lincoln Square for more information.
What is gingivitis?
It is inflammation that arises because the gums are irritated. Inflammation is a reaction that can go anywhere on the body when dirt, thorns or splinters stick in the skin. It is very rare that there will be pus present as a cause of gingivitis. It can come from a single tooth or multiple teeth. Blisters are not caused by gingivitis.
How can you get it?
The reason for gingivitis is bacteria coatings from plaque that sits on the teeth. This is what also causes holes in said teeth. This is the plaque that sits around the edge of the gums that irritate those gums too. Inflammation occurs because the teeth and gums are not properly cleaned. How fast gingivitis occurs is different from person to person. This is why your local dentist stresses regular dental checkups.
Is inflammation dangerous?
As long as the inflammation is at the edge of the gums it is not dangerous. If the gums are inflamed for a very long time and you do not clean your teeth properly, the inflammation can go further down into the jaw bone and destroy the threads that hold teeth firmly in the jawbone. This is when a Dentist in Lincoln Square will speak of periodontitis.
How do you get rid of gingivitis?
When you begin to keep your teeth and gums clean, you will see inflammation disappear quickly. After a few days the bleeding will stop, and the gums become less red and swollen. If you’ve had poor dental hygiene for a long time, your local emergency dentist may need to remove any present tartar and polish the teeth completely before you can begin to clean the teeth. It would also be smart to find all the places where plaque has been a problem. For more information, contact Cornerstone Dental of Lincoln Square today.
