Gingivitis and cavities are two of the most well-known dental conditions, and for good reason – they’re also the two most frequently occurring dental health issues. In the case of gingivitis, however, there is much about the condition that patients don’t know or realize, even if they do have an existing case of it. For example, when it’s allowed to progress into more severe gum disease, it can systemically erode the gums, periodontal ligaments, and jawbone structure that supports your teeth. As such, severe gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, though you can reduce your risks of such consequences by treating gingivitis as soon as it develops.

The Visual Impacts

Gingivitis develops when your gums become infected by harmful oral bacteria. Within the plaque that forms on your teeth and along your gum line every day are hundreds of types of oral bacteria. Many of them tend to work their underneath your gums when they’re not removed promptly enough. Before long, the bacteria underneath your gums cling to your teeth roots, releasing toxins that cause your gum tissues to recede so more bacteria can accumulate. As gingivitis grows worse, the recession becomes more noticeable, and can be accompanied by symptoms such as:

• Red and swollen gums
• Bleeding gum tissues
• Chronic bad breath
• Discolored areas of gum tissues
• Increasing gum sensitivity
• And more

How to Stop It from Getting Worse

The good news is that, if you fail to prevent gingivitis, then you still have a good chance at reversing it or at least stop it from becoming more severe. For instance, your dentist can recommend periodontal cleaning (or scaling and root planing) to remove the oral bacteria that have gathered on your teeth roots. This allows your gums to heal and reattach to your teeth roots. If you experience more severe gum disease, then you may require specialized treatment from a periodontal expert.

Learn More About Expert Periodontal Care

When gingivitis develops, it may affect the appearance of your gums and smile. But, the biggest concerns are what can happen when the condition is allowed to progress into more severe gum disease. To learn more about protecting your smile from gingivitis and gum disease, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353.