Overview
As 21st century nurses, we have good understanding of the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene not just for our patients or clients but also for ourselves and our family and friends. One of the common conditions that can have serious consequences on our health if left untreated is gingivitis. In this blog post, we'll provide a detailed information about gingivitis and at the same time exploring its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures.
 |
| Gingivitis in summary |
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease which is characterized by inflammation of the gingiva commonly known as the gum surrounding our teeth. Gingivitis is a reversible condition but if left untreated for a longer time, it can progress to periodontitis which is a severe infection that can eventually lead to tooth loss.
Causes of Gingivitis
The following are some of the common causes of gingivitis:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Plaque buildup
- Hormonal changes
- Smoking
- Genetics
- Certain medications
- Poor diet
Risk factors
The following are some risk factors that predispose individuals;
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
2. Smoking
3. Genetics
4. Hormonal Changes
5. Diabetes
6. Stress
7. Poor Diet
8. Aging
9. Medications
10. Systemic Diseases
11. Vitamin Deficiencies
12. Grinding and Clenching
13. Dental Work
14. Gum Recession
15. Inadequate Dental Care
Symptoms
Some of the Symptoms of Gingivitis are as follows:
- Red, swollen, and tender gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose teeth
- Painful chewing
Diagnosis of Gingivitis
- Physical examination
- Periodontal probing
- X-rays
- Medical history review
Treatment of Gingivitis
- Professional dental cleaning (scaling and polishing)
- Antibacterial mouthwash
- Improved oral hygiene habits
- Regular dental check-ups
Prevention
- Brush teeth at least twice a day
- Floss daily
- Use an antibacterial mouthwas
- Visit your dentist regularly
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products
- Maintain a balanced diet