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Gingivitis
Gum disease; Periodontal disease
Last reviewed: February 22, 2012.
Symptoms
Bleeding gums (blood on toothbrush even with gentle brushing of the teeth) Bright red or red-purple appearance to gums Gums that are tender when touched, but otherwise painless Mouth sores Swollen gums Shiny appearance to gums
Treatment
The goal is to reduce inammation. The dentist or dental hygienist will clean your teeth. The may use dierent tools to loosen and remove deposits from the teeth.
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Careful oral hygiene is necessary after professional tooth cleaning. The dentist or hygienist will show you how to brush and oss. Professional tooth cleaning in addition to brushing and ossing may be recommended twice per year or more frequently for severe cases of gum disease. Antibacterial mouth rinses or other aids may be also be recommended. Repair of misaligned teeth or replacement of dental and orthodontic appliances may be recommended. Any other related illnesses or conditions should be treated.
Expectations (prognosis)
Some people have discomfort when plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth. Bleeding and tenderness of the gums should lessen within 1 or 2 weeks after professional cleaning and careful oral hygiene. Warm salt water or antibacterial rinses can reduce gum swelling. Over-the-counter anti-inammatory medications may also be helpful. Healthy gums look pink and rm. Strict oral hygiene must be maintained for your whole life, or gum disease will recur.
Complications
Gingivitis returns Periodontitis Infection or abscess of the gums or the jaw bones Trench mouth
Prevention
Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent gingivitis. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day. You should oss at least once a day. Your dentist may recommend brushing and ossing after every meal and at bedtime. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist to show you how to properly brush and oss your teeth. Special devices may be recommended if you are prone to plaque deposits. They include special toothpicks, toothbrushes, water irrigation, or other devices. You still must brush and oss your teeth regularly. Antiplaque or antitartar toothpastes or mouth rinses may also be recommended. Regular professional tooth cleaning is important to remove plaque that may develop even with careful brushing and ossing. Many dentists recommend having the teeth professionally cleaned at least every 6 months.
References
1. Ferri FF. Ferris Clinical Advisor: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2005:447-448. 2. Marx J. Rosens Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002:898. 3. American Academy of Periodontology. Parameter on plaque-induced gingivitis. J Periodontol. 2000;71:851-852.
Review Date: 2/22/2012. Reviewed by: Paul Fotek, DMD, Florida Institute for Periodontics & Dental lmplants, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
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Figures
Tooth anatomy
The structure of the tooth includes dentin, pulp and other tissues, blood vessels and nerves imbedded in the bony jaw. Above the gum line, the tooth is protected by the hard enamel covering. Review Date: 8/2/2011. Reviewed by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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Gingivitis
Inammation of the gums is called gingivitis. Bacteria in plaque around the teeth release enzymes (collagenases) that can damage and erode the gum tissues. The infected gums swell, bleed easily, recede, and loosen from the teeth. Tooth loss is caused more frequently by gum disease than tooth decay. Review Date: 2/22/2012. Reviewed by: Paul Fotek, DMD, Florida Institute for Periodontics & Dental lmplants, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
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Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inammation of the gums caused by plaque and bacteria accumulation. Review Date: 2/22/2012. Reviewed by: Paul Fotek, DMD, Florida Institute for Periodontics & Dental lmplants, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
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