Gingivitis
Gingivitis
Seek immediate treatment if gingivitis develops
Don't wait to see a dentist if your teeth are showing signs of gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, the degenerative disease can cause significant tooth and gum deterioration. If an examination determines you have gingivitis, treating the condition is relatively simple and can be performed by your hygienist or dentist.
Bacteria thrive and multiply when plaque and tarter accumulate on the teeth. Bacteria causes gums to become inflamed and bleed, and those conditions are exacerbated when you eat or brush your teeth. Bleeding and inflamed gums are an early sign of gingivitis.
Early treatments for gingivitis include scaling and root planing. Many patients ask about the difference between the treatments. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth surface. Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces to remove the infected tooth structure.
Scaling and planing are non-surgical procedures that are administered without anesthesia. While the procedures are usually painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may make it necessary to numb the area. Deep scaling and root planing is usually broken down into one section of the mouth per appointment. This allows for adequate healing time, and reduces the time for each appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the early signs of gingivitis?
Inflamed gums that bleed, especially when you eat or brush, are an early sign of gingivitis. Bad breath can be another warning sign.
What causes gingivitis?
When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, bacteria thrive and multiply, causing the gums to become inflamed and bleed.
How is gingivitis treated?
Treating gingivitis is relatively simple and can be done by your hygienist or dentist. Early treatments include scaling, which removes tartar from the tooth surface, and root planing, which smooths the root surfaces.
Do scaling and root planing hurt?
They are non-surgical and usually painless, and are typically done without anesthesia. In more advanced cases, we may numb the area. Deep scaling and root planing is usually done one section of the mouth per appointment to allow healing.
What happens if gingivitis isn't treated?
Left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis (gum disease), which can cause significant tooth and gum deterioration. Don't wait to see us if you notice signs.