Information From Your Health Care Provider

GINGIVITIS

Basic information

description

Gingivitis is an inflammation (redness, soreness, swelling) of the gums (gingiva). This is a mild form of gum disease, but it can lead to more serious problems.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Gums that have become swollen, tender, red, and soft around the teeth. Gums may bleed easily.
Bad breath.
No pain.
Fever (rarely).

causes

Plaque. It is a sticky substance made up of food particles, germs, and mucus that builds up on the teeth.

risk increases with

Poor dental hygiene, other tooth problems, and mouth infections.
Poor nutrition. This can include eating too much sugar or vitamin deficiencies.
Adverse reactions to drugs, such as phenytoin and barbiturates.
People with diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or osteoporosis.
Disorders that affect the immune system such as arthritis, lupus, and AIDS.
Smoking.
Pregnancy.
Female hormones can affect the gums.
Family history of dental disease.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Maintain good oral hygiene
- Brush teeth twice a day or after each meal. Use a soft bristle toothbrush or a power toothbrush. A fluoride toothpaste is often recommended.
- Floss teeth at least once a day with waxed or unwaxed dental floss or use an interdental cleaner. An oral irrigator may be used in addition to flossing.
- A tongue scraper can be used to clean the tongue.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash if desired.
- Get dental check up and cleaning every six months; more often if you are prone to plaque or gingivitis.
Eat a well-balanced diet. Take vitamin supplements if you are unable to eat well-balanced meals.
Quit smoking. Find a plan that will work for you.

expected outcomes

With treatment and preventive steps, outlook is good.

possible complications

Without treatment, gingivitis can lead to more serious gum disease, infections, and tooth loss.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your dental health care provider can diagnose gingivitis with an exam of your teeth and gums. A special tool is used to check the depth of pockets in the gums. X-rays of the teeth help reveal any bone loss.
Treatment usually includes cleaning the teeth by a dental hygienist or other dental health care provider. There are different techniques depending on the degree of plaque build-up.
Other dental work may be needed. Teeth may need straightening, cavities filled, or missing teeth replaced.
Surgery may be needed to remove infected gum tissue, if other treatment fails.
To learn more: American Dental Association, 211 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, (312) 440-2500 (not toll free); website: www.ada.org.

medications

Antibiotics may be prescribed to fight infection. They may be taken by mouth (orally) or applied to the gums with special devices.
Fluoride mouthwash may be recommended.

activity

No limits.

diet

No special diet. Avoid candy, sweet drinks, or sweet snacks. Sugar stimulates the production of acid, which attacks normal teeth.

notify our office if

OR CALL YOUR DENTIST

You or a family member has symptoms of gingivitis.
The following occur after treatment
- Bleeding increases or there is more pain.
- Fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
- Neck or face is swollen, or it is hard to swallow.