When harmful bacteria are allowed to develop plaque and tartar, they eventually do irreversible damage. Inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial build-up is referred to as gingivitis and considered an early stage of gum disease. If you have red, swollen and bleeding gums, make sure you visit Dr. Wooten as soon as possible. It is important to treat the early stages of gum disease before it progresses.

More than half of pregnant women develop pregnancy gingivitis related to hormonal changes. The result is red, inflamed and tender gums that may bleed or be uncomfortable. The best way to try and prevent this is an effective oral care routine. And if you are planning to start a family go for a dental check up before you become pregnant.

It is important to ask your dentist or oral hygienist for expert advice. Using a mouthwash can help but make sure it is alcohol-free, such as Dentyl pH or GUM® Paroex Alhohol-Free Mouthrinse.

Gingivitis is basically inflammation of the gums in response to an irritant. It can be mild, moderate or severe. All forms of gingivitis are generally reversible with improved oral hygiene and some interceptive treatment. The more advanced cases might require a gingivectomy, which is the surgical excision of the redundant tissue. Causes of gingivitis include lack of good oral hygiene, drug induced (side-effects), hormonal to name a few. Periodontitis, on the other hand, involves bone loss.

Uncontrolled collection of plaque, a white bacterial deposit which forms naturally on the teeth everyday, is the main causative factor in gingivitis. If this is allowed to progress unchecked, then periodontal disease can follow, with damage to the attachment apparatus of your teeth.

The goal of treatment is reduction of gingival inflammation. The teeth are cleaned thoroughly by the dentist or dental hygienist. This may involve the use of various instruments or devices to loosen and remove deposits from the teeth. Meticulous oral hygiene is necessary after professional tooth cleaning. The dentist or hygienist will demonstrate brushing and flossing techniques.

Plaque is a gummy mass of microorganisms that grow on the crowns and spreads along the roots of teeth and is both colorless and transparent. Dental plaques are the forerunners of dental caries and periodontal disease. Tartar is hardened plaque deposited upon the teeth. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling and tendency to bleed.

Usually, many patients are unaware there are any changes because of the painless nature of the disease. A prenatal dental examination may reveal signs of gingivitis, which may include a bluish red color, swollen gingival (gums) and bleeding upon gentle probing. These signs are clinically seen in response to plaque accumulation, which may be more severe in some women than others. Irregular hormone levels during the 1st and 3rd trimester are found to control the severity of pregnancy gingivitis.

Gingivitis is a form of Periodontal Disease (gum disease). Periodontal disease involves inflammation and/or infection that results in destruction of the tissues that support the teeth. This supporting unit comprises the gingiva (gums), the periodontal ligaments (hold the tooth in place), and the tooth sockets (bone). Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) is caused by the long-term effects of plaque deposits.

Good oral hygiene is the best prevention against gingivitis because it removes the plaque that causes the disorder. The teeth should be brushed at least twice daily and flossed gently at least once per day. For people who are prone to gingivitis, brushing and flossing may be recommended after every meal and at bedtime. Consult the dentist or dental hygienist for instructions on proper brushing and flossing techniques.