Gingivitis - Gum Disease Treatment Kelowna

Gingivitis is a Precursor to Periodontal Disease

Also known as gum disease. Usually a result of poor hygiene, gingivitis is a chronic inflammation of the gingival tissue. Early detection by your dentist or dental hygienist can help treat the condition before it evolves into periodontitis or even reverse the inflammatory process altogether. Once gingivitis has progressed into periodontal disease, it is irreversible without surgery and can lead to tooth and bone loss. Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss seen in patients today. There is also a significant correlation between diabetes, strokes, heart attacks and gum disease.

Gingivitis Symptoms

In some cases, the patient is unaware of the existing gingivitis as it may or may not be painful. Regular visits to your Kelowna dentist for dental examinations and cleanings will ensure the quick detection of any irregularities in the teeth and gums. Below we have provided a list of some the common symptoms that may indicate a presence of gingivitis.

• Red, swollen gums
• Inflamed gums that bleed easily
• Sores in the mouth
• Bad breath
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Itchy or sensitive gums
• Gum recession (when the gum draws away from the tooth)

Causes of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is typically a result of poor oral hygiene. However, there are also several other factors that contribute to the formation of gingivitis such as the following listed below.

• Drugs
• Smoking
• Medication
• Diabetes
• Genetics
• Malnutrition
• Change in hormones from pregnancy, puberty, menopause etc.
• Medical conditions

Gingivitis Prevention

Gingivitis left untreated will progress into periodontal disease causing irreversible bone and tooth loss. Prevention and early detection is crucial and can be easily controlled with proper hygiene and regular visits to your Kelowna dental office for examinations and cleanings at least twice a year.

You can prevent the development of gingivitis by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing in between teeth at least once a day. Your Kelowna dentist may wish to prescribe an antimicrobial mouthwash to deter the colonization of bacteria and suggest healthier options for a diet better suited for the preservation of your oral health.

Something as simple as choosing the right toothbrush can also aid in preventing injury to the gums which, if irritated may become more susceptible to gingivitis. Choose a tooth brush with soft bristles so as not to injure the gum tissue. Also, some electronic toothbrushes come equipped with timers that help to encourage better oral health habits. Brushing too hard or excessively can actually cause more damage than benefit. Brushing your teeth gently for two minutes at least twice a day and flossing afterwards will ensure you maintain healthy teeth and gums while simultaneously preventing gingivitis and other oral health problems from forming.

Gingivitis Treatments

Early detection of gingivitis is easily treated. Your dentist or dental hygienist will perform a dental cleaning to remove calcified tartar and plaque from your teeth and along the gum line. Depending on the amount of tartar and plaque, its removal may be uncomfortable. A numbing gel or an anesthetic injection will allow the removal of unwanted plaque and tartar to be successfully and painlessly eliminated. You may experience slight bleeding following your cleaning. However, this is normal and will stop within a few days. In addition, your dentist may wish to prescribe a medicated mouthwash to be integrated into your oral health regimen. Gingivitis is readily treatable with in-office dental care and proper oral hygiene. If you suspect that you may have gingivitis, consult your Kelowna dentist to find out what treatment plan is best suited for you to prevent further oral health complications.