Gingivitis Symptoms: How to Recognize Gingivitis Early

Gingivitis is an inflammatory gum disease caused by plaque build-up, bacteria, or other triggers. If gingivitis is not treated in time, it can develop into periodontal disease, which threatens dental health and can even lead to tooth loss. To prevent serious complications, it is important to recognize the early signs of gingivitis and understand why they occur.

Causes of gingivitis

The main cause of gingivitis is bacterial plaque that forms on the teeth due to poor oral hygiene. It contains millions of bacteria that produce toxins and cause inflammation of the gums. However, there are other factors that contribute to the disease:

• Hormonal changes. Pregnancy, puberty, or menopause can make your gums more sensitive.
• Smoking. Tobacco toxins interfere with normal blood flow to the gum tissues.
• Poor diet. A lack of vitamins, especially C and D, weakens the immune system and delays tissue regeneration.
• Chronic diseases. Diabetes and immune deficiencies increase the risk of gum disease.
• Incorrect dental treatments. Poor-quality dentures, crowns, or fillings can damage your gums.

The main symptoms of gingivitis

Gingivitis usually develops gradually, and the first symptoms may not be noticeable. However, it is important to be aware of any changes in the condition of your gums.

Redness and swelling of the gums

One of the first signs of gingivitis is discoloration of the gums. Healthy gums are pink, but they turn bright red or even purple when infected. The swelling is due to increased blood flow in response to the inflammatory process.

Bleeding while brushing teeth or eating

If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth or chew hard foods, it can be a sign of gingivitis. Bleeding indicates fragility of blood vessels and inflammation of soft tissue.

Bad breath

The breakdown of bacteria in plaque and soft gum tissue creates a persistent bad odor (halitosis). Even thorough tooth brushing can’t eliminate this odor.

Gum sensitivity and pain

With gingivitis, the gums become more sensitive to touch, temperature changes, and the consumption of certain foods. The pain may be sharp or dull and increase at regular intervals.

Changes in the structure of the gums

Inflamed gums may appear loose, and their surface may become uneven. Tiny sores sometimes occur on the gum surface.

Gum recession

As gingivitis progresses, a receding gum line may develop. This exposes the neck of the teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities and increasing sensitivity to heat and cold.

The build-up of plaque and tartar

In gingivitis, plaque begins to mineralize, and tartar forms, further irritating the gums and promoting inflammation.

Diagnosis and prevention

To accurately diagnose gingivitis, you should consult a dentist. They will conduct an examination, assess the condition of your gums, and, if necessary, prescribe additional tests, such as X-rays, to detect hidden problems.

To prevent the development of gingivitis, it is important to follow several rules:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Use dental floss or an oral rinse to remove food particles
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional teeth cleaning
• Give up bad habits like smoking
• Take care of your diet by eating more vegetables and fruits

Treatment of gingivitis

If gingivitis has already occurred, treatment includes:

• Hygienic procedures. Removing plaque and tartar with an ultrasonic scaler
• Wash. Antiseptic solutions (such as chlorhexidine) help reduce inflammation
• Anti-inflammatory gels. Metronidazole or chlorhexidine products are applied directly to the gums
• Correction of fillings or prosthetic devices. If they damage the gums, they must be replaced or adjusted.

The bottom line

Symptoms of gingivitis, such as redness, bleeding, and bad odor, should not be ignored. Visiting the dentist early will help prevent complications and keep your gums healthy. Regular oral hygiene and preventive measures play a key role in the fight against this disease. Take care of your gums—they are the basis of your oral health.