What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a common gum disease that affects many people worldwide. It causes irritation, redness, and swelling of your gums, particularly around the base of your teeth. This condition occurs due to the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If you don’t remove plaque through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar. Tartar makes it more difficult to clean your teeth effectively, which can lead to more serious gum disease.

Gingivitis is often mild, so many people may not even realize they have it. However, ignoring it can lead to more severe conditions like periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss. Understanding gingivitis and how it affects your gums is crucial for maintaining good oral health.

What is Gingivitis?

Causes of Gingivitis

Gingivitis begins with the formation of plaque. Plaque forms when sugars and starches in the food you consume interact with bacteria normally found in your mouth. This interaction creates a thin, invisible layer on your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing can remove plaque, but it forms quickly, usually within 24 hours. If you skip brushing, plaque can harden into tartar, which is much more challenging to remove and irritates your gums.

Several factors can increase your risk of developing gingivitis:

  • Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque to form and harden.
  • Smoking or chewing tobacco: Tobacco use can harm your gums and make it harder for them to heal.
  • Diabetes: People with diabetes are more susceptible to infections, including gum disease.
  • Certain medications: Some drugs can reduce saliva flow, which protects your gums and teeth.
  • Hormonal changes: Changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can make gums more sensitive.
  • Genetic factors: Some people are more prone to severe gum disease due to their genetic makeup.

These factors increase your risk of developing gingivitis. Regular dental check-ups are vital as they help detect early signs of gum disease, allowing for timely intervention.

How Gingivitis Affects the Gums

Gingivitis impacts your gums in several significant ways. Initially, gums become inflamed and tender, which is often the first noticeable sign. This inflammation makes gums bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing. You might notice a pink tinge on your toothbrush or in the sink after brushing. Gingivitis can also cause gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. As gums recede, the roots of your teeth become exposed, which can cause increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that affects the tissues and bones supporting your teeth. This can lead to the formation of pockets between your teeth and gums, which can become infected. Over time, the bones, gums, and tissue supporting the teeth are destroyed, leading to tooth loss.

The effects of gingivitis are not limited to the mouth. Studies have linked gum disease to other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. This makes it even more critical to address gingivitis early.