Is Gingivitis a Disease?

Gingivitis sounds like a scary disease you don’t want to have. Obviously, there’s no such thing as a good disease. Technically, gingivitis is classified as a periodontal disease. This means that it impacts the soft and hard structures that are essential in supporting your teeth. It is also the cause of inflammation in your gums. When it comes to tooth health, gingivitis has become an extremely common problem. When diagnosed with this disease, you want to know what to expect. You want to know if it is permanent, how you got it and is it curable.

Is Gingivitis Permanent?

While tooth problems may be frustrating and overwhelming, gingivitis doesn’t have to be. However, it is an early stage of gum disease, a destructive periodontal disease that can lead to bigger problems. Thankfully, gingivitis isn’t permanent, but ignoring it could be a problem. In mild cases of it, you might not even know that you have it. Red, puffy gums are an apparent sign/symptom of gingivitis. This should be taken seriously as it is your body’s natural response to fighting off harmful bacteria present. More than half of the U.S. population has gingivitis. However, they never experience further complications from it. Visiting a trustworthy dentist will not only give you the peace of mind you need but also provide you with solutions. Thankfully, Gingivitis is treatable and preventable. Your dentist will go over a treatment plan to help you stop the effects of gingivitis.

Is Gingivitis Genetic?

Most people assume that poor dental hygiene is the only cause of gingivitis. However, that’s not the case. Interestingly, genetics tends to play a role in your susceptibility. Experts say that your risk of contracting gingivitis is higher when someone within your nuclear family, like your parents, also developed gingivitis. Genetics is only a very small factor in when it comes to you developing gingivitis. While it may make it easier for you to have gingivitis related problems other cause must be considered too.

The most common cause of gingivitis is the buildup of bacterial plaque between and around the teeth. When the healthy plaque that exists within your mouth is not removed properly, it causes an inflammatory response. Swelling and bleeding of the gums is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Changes in hormones, such as pregnancy or malnutrition are additional causes of gingivitis. Moreover, regularly smoking and diseases like cancer and HIV also lead to you developing gingivitis.

Is Gingivitis Curable?

If you have been diagnosed with gingivitis, there is good news: it is completely treatable and reversible. The first step to curing gingivitis is to develop good dental hygiene habits. Correcting your dental hygiene is the easiest way to treat and prevent gingivitis. So, if you see a little pink in the sink, it is best not to simply ignore it. Brushing your teeth after meals, flossing when you wake up, flossing when you go to bed and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash are important practices to include in your everyday routine.  Regular visits to a dentist are a great way to improve any problems you have with gingivitis.

We all want perfect teeth. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible. Sometimes genetics seem to work against you. However, when it comes to gingivitis, good hygiene habits are the best defense. Don’t neglect your regular visits with your dentist.  If you suspect gingivitis is wreaking havoc on your teeth, don’t hesitate to give us a call 559-732-3972. We’ll help you out.