Gingivitis is one of the most common dental issues. It can cause red, swollen, and bleeding gums, often making people wonder if it is permanent.
The good news is that gingivitis is treatable and, in most cases, reversible. In this article, we will explain what gingivitis is, its causes, and how you can treat it at home or with professional care.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that affects the soft tissue surrounding your teeth. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline. Over time, this buildup irritates the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding.
Causes
The primary cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene, but other factors can increase your risk:
- Plaque buildup: Not brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque to harden into tartar.
- Smoking: Tobacco use weakens your gums and makes it harder to fight infections.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, puberty, and hormonal fluctuations can make gums more sensitive.
- Certain medications: Some drugs reduce saliva flow, which helps keep your mouth clean.
- Underlying health conditions: Diabetes and immune system disorders can increase the likelihood of gum disease.
What Is Gingivitis?
Yes, gingivitis is curable, especially when caught early. Unlike advanced gum disease (periodontitis), gingivitis does not cause permanent damage to the bone and tissues supporting the teeth. With proper care, your gums can return to a healthy state.
How to treat it at home
Good oral hygiene is the first step to treating gingivitis at home. Here’s what you can do:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
- Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that encourage plaque buildup.
How to cure it in a week
While severe gingivitis may take longer to heal, mild cases can start improving after a week if you:
- Follow a strict brushing and flossing routine.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) to reduce swelling.
- Stop smoking or using tobacco products.
- Stay hydrated to maintain saliva flow.
How to reverse it
Reversing gingivitis means removing plaque and tartar so your gums can heal. Professional dental cleanings are the most effective way to remove hardened tartar that you cannot reach at home. Once the buildup is gone, maintaining good oral hygiene will prevent it from coming back.
Does Gingivitis Go Away?
Yes, gingivitis can go away with the right care and consistency. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can reduce inflammation and bleeding. These habits help remove plaque and bacteria, the main causes of gingivitis.
Still, at-home care may not be enough since plaque can harden into tartar, which only a dentist can remove. Professional cleanings are essential to fully heal your gums and prevent worsening issues like periodontitis or cavities.
How long does it take to go away?
The healing time depends on the severity of the condition. Mild gingivitis can start improving in a week, while more advanced cases may take several weeks. Consistency is key—if you stop caring for your gums, the symptoms may return.
When to See a Dentist
It can be tempting to wait and see if your gums improve on their own, but delaying a dental visit can make gingivitis worse. You should schedule an appointment with your dentist if you notice:
- Persistent bleeding gums even after brushing and flossing correctly.
- Swollen or tender gums that do not improve after a week of good oral care.
- Gums pulling away from your teeth (gum recession).
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that does not go away.
- Loose teeth or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
A dentist will perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup and may recommend additional treatments depending on the severity of your gingivitis.
Professional check-ups also allow dentists to detect early signs of more serious conditions like periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated. Additionally, preventive cleanings every six months help keep tartar from building up again and support the work you do at home.
Target Gingivitis Before It Becomes Serious
If your gums are bleeding, swollen, or painful even after improving your home care routine, it is time to see a dentist.
At Somos Dental, you can get gingivitis treatment starting at $599*. Our team offers affordable care in Phoenix and Dallas to help you maintain a healthy smile.
Stop by our Phoenix or Dallas clinics for care.
Phoenix:
Notice redness or swelling in your gums? It’s time to take action.
Call 623-869-1091 or book a FREE CONSULTATION online. Chat with us anytime via WhatsApp, Messenger, or SMS.
Remember, a professional cleaning will remove tartar and help your gums heal. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.
Don’t let gingivitis
steal your smile.
Treat it now!
