Why Does Gingival Inflammation Occur?
Gingival Inflammation begins in the mouth when bacterial plaque builds up along the tooth line over time. Inadequate brushing and flossing causes this plaque to harden into calculus (tartar). The bacteria on the tartar exert constant pressure and irritation on the gums, causing inflammation.
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Factors such as hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy and puberty), smoking, diabetes and immune system disorders can also trigger inflammation by reducing the gum tissue’s resistance to bacteria.
What is Gingival Inflammation?
Gingivitis is an early periodontal disease that occurs when the superficial layer of the gums is irritated by bacterial agents. The gum tissue swells, becomes red and may bleed to the touch or during brushing. Left untreated, the inflammation can spread to the underlying tissues and the bone structure that anchors the teeth, leading to periodontitis, which increases the risk of tooth loss.
“Gingivitis is usually reversible; it is possible to regain gum health with early reversible measures.”
What are the Common Symptoms of Gingivitis
Symptoms of gingivitis usually start mildly but become more pronounced over time. The most common symptoms include:
- Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing.
- Red and swollen gums are the most obvious visual sign of inflammation.
- Gum sensitivity can cause discomfort with touch or hot and cold foods.
- Bad breath (halitosis) can become permanent as a result of bacteria multiplying in the mouth.
- Gum recession causes the root surface of the tooth to be exposed over time.
- A feeling of loosening of the teeth occurs as the connective tissues holding the tooth weaken as the inflammation progresses.
When one or more of these symptoms are noticed, a dentist should be consulted as soon as possible to prevent the progression of gingivitis.
The Effects of Gingival Inflammation on
General Health
Gingivitis is more than just a localized oral health problem, it can also negatively affect the overall health of the body. Chronic peri-odontic inflammation, pro-inflammatory cytokines that circulate through the bloodstream have been shown to increase the risk of systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections and low birth weight.
Continued inflammation increases overall inflammation in the body, exhausting the immune system and setting the stage for chronic diseases.
Which Treatment Methods Are Available for Gingival Inflammation?
The main purpose of gingivitis treatment is to completely remove plaque and tartar and to allow the gum tissue to heal. For this;
- Professional scaling (scaling and surface correction): Both tooth surfaces and tartar accumulated under the gums are cleaned.
- Antibacterial mouthwashes and gels: Locally used agents such as chlorhexidine reduce the bacterial load.
- Local or systemic antibiotics: Used in severe cases on the recommendation of a physician.
- Laser-assisted periodontal treatments: They accelerate healing and reduce inflammation.
Regular follow-up and care increases the success of the treatment.
What to Do to Prevent Gingival Inflammation?
Proper and regular oral care is the most effective way to prevent gingivitis. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove plaque between the teeth. Regular dental check-ups and professional scaling (prophylactic dental cleaning) also prevent plaque and tartar from accumulating. In addition, limiting sugary and acidic foods with a healthy diet, consuming enough water and avoiding stress increase gum resistance and prevent inflammatory processes.
How Does Gingival Inflammation Affect Dental Health?
Inflammation, which is seen only in the gum tissue in the early period; If left untreated, it can progress to the bone and fibrous connective tissue surrounding the teeth. Thus, the gingival pocket depth increases, the teeth become loose and may eventually be lost. In addition, receding gums lead to superficial root exposure, tooth sensitivity and difficulties in chewing function. This process causes both aesthetic and functional problems and seriously impairs oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can take a look at the common questions asked by our patients and contact us
for all other questions you are curious about.
If left untreated, the inflammation can damage the bone and fibrous connective tissue surrounding the teeth, leading to loosening of the teeth and long-term tooth loss.
Yes, children can also develop gingivitis as a result of poor oral hygiene; regular brushing and check-ups are especially important in teething babies and school-age children.
Although not directly “contagious”, oral bacteria can be passed between family members through saliva, so it is advisable to avoid sharing cutlery or toothbrushes.
Yes, bacteria in plaque and inflamed tissues under the gums can produce foul-smelling gases (VSCs), leading to chronic bad breath (halitosis).
Certainly, tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush and professional scaling (scaling) is essential to control gingivitis.
Pregnancy hormones make the gums more sensitive and bleeding, increasing the risk of inflammation; uncontrolled inflammation can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia and low birth weight through cytokines reaching the placenta.
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