Gingivitis-A reason to have good hygienic habits.

Gingivitis is a very common form of gum disease which can affect almost anyone. First occurrence is usually in puberty. This disease, although mild in nature, can progress into periodontitis or even cause tooth loss. It is necessary to treat this disease properly. As it is always being mentioned, prevention is the beat strategy. Gingivitis can be prevented by regular dental checkups and healthy hygienic habits.

Symptoms of Gingivitis may not always be visible. This disease may or may not cause any pain. However, major change can occur in the appearance of gums when they become puffy and tender. They also begin to bleed more easily.

Symptoms:-

1. Swelling of gums 2. Changed appearance and color of gums 3. Gums puffy and soft at touch 4. Tender and recessing gums 5. Bleeding from gums during brushing and flossing 6. Bad breath

Causes:-

Most common cause of Gingivitis is formation of plaque on the teeth. Bacteria that reside in mouth are responsible for the formation of plaque. It is formed when these bacteria interact with sugars and starch in the food. The plaque is to be removed on daily basis else it can harden under the gum line into strong dispositions. These dispositions or tartar create a protective shield for bacteria and worsen the problem. The calculus thus formed cannot be removed by simple brushing or flossing but is requires professional aid.

Plaque formation is on daily basis and if it is not removed for 2-3 days, it leads to tartar formation which may irritate the gingival i.e. the base of teeth. It causes swelling of gums and makes them bleed easily.

Risk Factors of Gingivitis:-

1.Poor hygienic habits 2.Tobacco consumption 3.Substance abuse 4.Old age 5.Dryness of mouth 6.Poor oral health 7.Pathogenic infection of mouth 8.Malnutrition 9.Use of certain medications 10.Immunosuppressant medicines 11.Diseases like leukemia, HIV AIDS that weaken the immune system 12.Hormonal changes triggered by menstruation, pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives 13.Misaligned dental restorations

If untreated, Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis in which infection spreads up to underlying tissues and bones. It not only causes tooth loss but also affects overall health in several ways. In some studies, strong correlation has been found between periodontitis and increased risk of stroke, heart attack or lung disorders. In women, Gingivitis can lead to premature deliveries and babies born with low birth weight. Thus it is necessary to maintain proper oral hygiene.

Diagnosis:-

To do the Diagnosis of Gingivitis, the dentist examines gums, tongue, teeth and formation of plaque. If no abnormalities are found, further checkup by a medical professional is needed to detect the underlying cause.

Treatment:-

1.Scaling process to remove the plaque and tartar 2.Regular checkups and dental cleaning 3.Daily brushing and flossing 4.Removal of dental restorations 5.Management of Misaligned teeth 6.Antiseptic mouth wash.

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