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Gingivitis


cartoon image of teeth with plaqueGingivitis is an oral health condition affecting many people, and it's important to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment options. If left unchecked, gingivitis can lead to more serious periodontal conditions like tooth decay or gum disease that may require extensive dental treatments or even surgery to restore oral health.

At Gresham Dental Excellence, we believe that understanding the connection between good hygiene habits and healthy gums is key to keeping your teeth free of any issues like gingivitis.

What is Gingivitis?


Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that can cause mild to severe discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. Gingivitis is a common oral condition that affects many people regardless of age or gender. The primary cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene.

Though it is often painless in its early stages, gingivitis is a serious condition that can lead to periodontitis if left untreated. At Gresham Dental Excellence, our dental expert suggests that regular dental checkups, brushing, and flossing can help prevent and treat gingivitis.

How Gingivitis is Treated


Gingivitis can be treated by a variety of methods. Some of these include:

Professional Cleanings


The most effective treatment for gingivitis is a professional dental cleaning. This procedure involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, which is essential for improving oral health.

During the cleaning, our dentist, Dr. Cooke, will also provide instructions on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as recommend the use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash.

Mainting Good Oral Hygiene


In addition to professional cleaning, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine at home is essential for treating gingivitis. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. It is also important to eat a healthy diet with vitamins and minerals and low in sugar.

Medications and Surgery


In more severe cases, our dentist will prescribe antibiotics to treat any bacterial infections that may have developed in the gums. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove deeply embedded plaque and bacteria from the gums.

Causes of Gingivitis


Gingivitis can be caused by many factors, some of which include the following:
•  Smoking or use of tobacco products
•  Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or menopause
•  Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, that can weaken the immune system
•  Certain medications, such as antihistamines and blood pressure medicines, can cause dry mouth and make it harder to remove plaque and tartar
•  Genetic predisposition

Prevention Tips for Gingivitis


At Gresham Dental Excellence we believe that prevention is the best cure. We recommend our clients follow the following tips to keep gingivitis at bay.
•  Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line.
•  Mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Look for an anti-bacterial mouthwash that is specifically designed to fight gum disease.
•  Regular dental checkups and cleanings are necessary to ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy. During your checkup, your dentist can spot signs of gingivitis and other dental problems before they become more serious.
•  A diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugar and processed foods can help provide the essential vitamins and nutrients needed to maintain healthy teeth and gums.










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Gresham Dental Excellence, 490 East Powell Blvd, Gresham, OR 97030 | (971) 431-7292 | greshamdentalexcellence.com | 10/8/2024 | Page Terms:dentist Gresham OR |