What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a common condition that can affect patients who have poor oral health and hygiene. Taking good care of your teeth is important, and if you have gingivitis, it’s also important to combat this condition quickly before it becomes more serious. Your dentist in North Little Rock, AR, can help you with this. Below, we’ve outlined what you need to know about gingivitis.

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes redness, swelling, and irritation of the gums. People who have gingivitis may also experience bleeding of the gums when they brush their teeth.

How Can You Tell If You Have Gingivitis?

If you have gingivitis, you may not know. However, some symptoms of the condition include:

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away when you brush
• Swollen, red, irritated gums
• Gums that bleed when you floss or brush
• Tender or painful gums
• Gum recession

What Should You Do If You Have Gingivitis?

Gingivitis, if caught early and treated quickly, can be turned around. However, failure to take gingivitis seriously or treat it early can result in more serious periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can cause your teeth to become loose and may even result in tooth loss. If you have gingivitis, it’s important to:

• Come in for dental cleanings as often as your dentist recommends
• Brush your teeth twice per day with an adequate toothbrush
• Replace your toothbrush every three months, and if possible, use an electric toothbrush
• Floss once per day

Gingivitis can be prevented by maintaining good oral health and getting dental cleanings in North Little Rock, AR. If it’s been longer than six months since you last saw the dentist, call today to make your next dental appointment.