Gingivitis: causes and treatments | Periodontics | Sana Oris Dental Clinic, Paris 8

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a moderate form of periodontal disease caused by the formation of a bacterial infection.

Causes of gingivitis

In general, the main cause of gingivitis is the accumulation of dental plaque at the gum/tooth junction. This makes it easy for a bacterial infection to form, in this case caused by bacteria accumulated between the tooth and the gum, triggering inflammation of the gum tissue.

There are many causes of periodontal disease, the most common being:

  • poor oral hygiene, for example by using a toothbrush with bristles that are too stiff;
  • Alcohol consumption and smoking are also aggravating factors.
  • genetic predispositions that promote the accumulation of dental plaque;
  • frequent hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause.

The cause of gingivitis can also be underlying. Indeed, diseases such as diabetes also cause gingivitis.

Good to know: Certain medications, particularly those that cause dry mouth, can increase the risk of gingivitis by promoting bacterial growth.

Therefore, given that there are various causes, a medical diagnosis is necessary to determine the sources of gingivitis.

Symptoms of gingivitis

Healthy gums do not bleed or hurt. Their normal color is light pink.

The first signs of gum inflammation are as follows:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Swelling of the gums
  • Sensitive gums
  • Red gums
  • Bad breath
  • Gum pain

Gums may also appear sensitive and prone to bleeding when brushing. The first thing to do if your gums bleed is to check and improve your oral hygiene, especially your tooth brushing technique.

But simply observing that the gums appear healthy is not enough, as gum disease can develop silently. It is impossible to diagnose gum inflammation without medical attention.
By the time symptoms appear, the disease has already reached an advanced stage. It is therefore crucial to emphasize the importance of seeing a dentist annually to monitor oral health and avoid complications.

The consequences of gingivitis

Untreated gingivitis can lead to a more severe form, namely periodontitis, and even tooth loss.

Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a disease with more serious symptoms. Periodontitis causes progressive destruction of gum tissue, followed by bone loss, which can lead to loose teeth and even tooth loss. To avoid these complications, it is crucial to treat gingivitis as soon as it appears. A visit to the dentist allows it to be detected at the first signs or even when it is developing silently, thanks to a periodontal assessment carried out by a periodontist.

Treatments

At Sana Oris, we offer a periodontal approach that includes prevention, treatment, and monitoring to prevent recurrence. Periodontal assessment allows us to detect and identify the accumulation of bacteria and dental plaque responsible for inflammation.

We therefore emphasize the importance of regular periodontal checkups to avoid waiting for symptoms of gingivitis to appear.

Treatment consists of laser sessions at the dentist's office, combined with a strict medication regimen. This treatment is supplemented by rigorous brushing techniques and appropriate oral hygiene measures at home.

The periodontal examination is carried out as follows:

  • Consultation between the patient and the practitioner to learn about your medical history, habits, and risk factors;
  • Microscopic examination of dental plaque, which will be analyzed and interpreted immediately to identify any pathogenic bacteria and their extent;
  • Submission of a report and a customized quote if necessary.

If gingivitis is confirmed during a periodontal examination, treatment involves thorough disinfection and pocket debridement (lithotripsy). The dentist performs the following procedures, which are completely painless:

The treatment of gingivitis is based on a combined approach, including a strict medication protocol that must be followed at home. At the same time, laser sessions are performed in the office to disinfect and debride periodontal pockets. This combination effectively eliminates the bacteria and parasites responsible for periodontal disease, thus preventing the risk of recurrence.
The Sana Oris team provides you with exclusive, high-quality periodontal care.

Results of treatment for gingivitis

The goal of treatment is to restore gum tissue health by eradicating the periodontal bacteria responsible for inflammation and thus strengthening the supporting tissues around the teeth. By maintaining good oral hygiene, particularly through the use of mouthwash, interdental brushes, and effective brushing between the teeth, patients can prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of gingivitis. Taking care of your oral health helps maintain healthy periodontium and an oral cavity free from complications related to gum inflammation.

The cost of treatment to relieve gingivitis

After a comprehensive periodontal assessment, we will provide you with a treatment plan and a customized quote.

FAQ

Does gingivitis hurt?

Gingivitis can cause pain or discomfort, especially if the gums bleed, but it is not usually very painful.

Is gingivitis contagious?

Gingivitis is not directly contagious, but it is caused by a proliferation of bacteria, some of which may come from outside the body. It can therefore be transmitted through saliva, particularly when sharing personal items such as cutlery or toothbrushes.

How long does gingivitis last?

Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the gums, and it can take several months to completely eradicate the bacteria. The duration of healing depends on the stage of gingivitis. It is important to note that the main problem with periodontal disease is recurrence. Even after treatment, if it is not monitored regularly by an expert, gingivitis can return. Annual follow-up is therefore essential to prevent relapse.

What foods should be avoided if you have gingivitis?

It is advisable to avoid foods that are too sweet or acidic, as they can further irritate the gums. Choose foods that are soft and easy to chew.

How can you tell if you have gingivitis or periodontitis?

Gingivitis manifests itself as red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If these symptoms are left untreated, they can develop into periodontitis, which leads to the loss of bone tissue around the teeth. A professional can make an accurate diagnosis after an examination.

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