Gingival Health Assessment
Dental cleanings are a key aspect to maintaining proper oral hygiene
Dental cleanings are a key aspect to maintaining proper oral hygiene which entails the removal of dental plaque, stains and other deposits from teeth to prevent dental caries and periodontal diseases. Regular cleanings are essential to maintaining overall dental health and providing optimal oral hygiene instruction. While professional cleanings are a priority, proper home care practices are instrumental to achieving good dental and gingival health. Gingival health, the condition of your gums is integral to tooth health. By reducing gum inflammation and preserving gingival health, you provide protection to the teeth and underlying bone.
Plaque-induced gingivitis or bleeding gums are issues relevant to a significant portion of the population. Since gingivitis may cause little or no discomfort in its early stages, some people might not even realize they have it. Of course, the good news for any patient is that gingivitis is reversible which is why KidZdent emphasizes the importance of a routine assessment and treatment.
Patients rely on our dental professionals to assist them in identifying any affected areas and the best preventive home care methods to avoid or reverse the negative effects of inflammation surrounding the gum tissue.
Regular dental visits combined with individualized oral health regimens maximize prevention of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
What is Gingivitus?
Gingivitis is described as inflammation of the gums, or gingiva. It commonly occurs because a buildup of plaque, or bacteria, accumulates on the teeth at the gumline. The plaque triggers an immune response, which, in turn, can eventually lead to the destruction of gingival, or gum, tissue. It may also, eventually, progress to periodontal disease and lead to further complications, including the loss of teeth. Gingivitis may be considered a non-destructive type of periodontal disease, but untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This is more serious and damages supporting bone and can eventually lead to loss of teeth.
Gingivitis often resolves with the improvement of proper oral hygiene, such as longer and more frequent brushing, and flossing. In addition, an antiseptic mouthwash may help.
In mild cases of gingivitis, patients may not even know they have it, because symptoms are so mild. However, the condition should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.
Signs of Gingivitus
Two major signs of gingivitis that should raise concern would be red and puffy gums and/or sensitive gums that bleed easily when brushing.
Other symptoms include:
- bright red or purple gums
- tender gums that may be painful to the touch
- bleeding from the gums when brushing or flossing
- halitosis, or bad breath
- inflammation, or swollen gums
- receding gums
- soft gums
Other Cause of Gingivitis
- Changes in hormones
- Diseases like Cancer or diabetes are common links for patients to have a higher risk
- Certain drugs or medications
- Age factors
- Poor diet like for example, a vitamin-C deficiency
- Family history
Professional/Preventive Dental Care at KidZdent
- Plaque and tartar are removed. This is known as scaling.
- The dental professional will explain the importance of oral hygiene and how to brush and floss effectively.
- Follow-up appointments may be recommended, with more frequent cleanings if necessary.
- Fixing any damages teeth also contributes to oral hygiene.
- Addressing dental problems, such as crooked teeth, badly fitted crowns or bridges, may make it harder to properly remove plaque and tartar. They may also irritate the gums.
- Periodontal probing and screening
At-home Care
Patients are advised to:
- Brush teeth at least twice a day
- Use an electric toothbrush
- Floss teeth at least once a day
- Regularly rinse mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash
Our dentists can recommend a suitable brush, toothpaste and mouthwash, as well as demonstrate the proper techniques for flossing and brushing.
Get in Touch
Have questions or need any help from our team? Reach out to us below and one of our team members will get in touch with you as soon as we see your request.