Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and is a common form of gum disease, as a result of a bacterial infection.

2. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and is a common form of gum disease, as a
result of a bacterial infection.
It occurs when there is a build-up of plaque, or bacteria, on the base of the tooth, where
it meets the gumline. The inflammation can develop into pockets or gaps between the
tooth and the surrounding gum and result in the loss of ligaments and bone that
supports the tooth.
If gingivitis is left untreated it can lead to a more serious infection known as
periodontitis. In severe cases where there has been extensive loss of bone, teeth may
become loose and even fall out.
According to a report conducted by the Australian Dental Association, 19.8% of
Australian adults aged 15+ had periodontal pockets.

4. What causes gingivitis?
The most common cause of gingivitis is the build-up of bacterial plaque between and
around the base of the tooth.
When plaque has not been removed adequately — this is what your 6 monthly dental
scale and cleans are for — it can harden into calculus or tartar.
Yellow, grey, white or brown in colour, plaque and tartar can eventually start to irritate
the gums, causing an inflammation around the base of the tooth.
This is when you would experience bleeding when brushing
or flossing.
If plaque is left unchecked, it triggers an immune response, which can eventually lead
to the deterioration of gum tissue and, eventually, further complications, including
periodontitis and loss of teeth.

5. Other risk factors
Gingivitis is more common than you think, anyone can develop it. However, it’s just as
preventable with good oral hygiene, care and of course — regular dental check-ups.
Other risk factors can include:
•Smoking
•Poor oral care and hygiene
•Dry mouth
•Poor nutrition
•Conditions that decrease immunity
•Dental restorations fitted poorly, that make it hard to clean teeth
•Broken fillings
•Hormonal changes, including those related to pregnancy, menstrual cycles or use of
birth control pills
•Medical conditions, including fungal and viral infections
•Genetics
•Diabetes

6. Do I have gingivitis?
There are a number of signs and symptoms that you’re in the early stages of gum
disease. While you may not notice any significant changes, some common signs of
gingivitis include sore, tender or puffy gums that bleed when brushing and flossing.
It can also cause small pockets to form where the gum meets the base of the tooth,
where food debris can accumulate and cause more irritation, and eventually, decay to
the gum line.
It’s important to be aware that the early stages of gingivitis can sometimes be painless,
and although you may not be experiencing any obvious symptoms, you may still have
some form of gum disease.
Some other tell-tale signs and symptoms can include:
•Receding gums
•Constant bad breath
•Loose teeth
•Red, swollen or tender gums
•Bleeding when brushing or flossing

7. Only a dentist will be able to recognize gum disease and determine the current state of
your oral health. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult a
dentist immediately.
How is gingivitis treated?
There’s a reason why dentists recommend a check-up every 6 months. A clean and scale
is one of the easiest and most effective ways to treat and prevent gum disease. A
professional dentist will remove the hardened plaque and tartar that has accumulated
above and below the gum line. However, this is not an excuse to forget about your own
oral care and hygiene. You should still be flossing at least once a day and brushing your
teeth twice a day.
Can you fix gingivitis at home?
Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that is easily preventable with good oral care
and hygiene. You can manage gum disease at home by ensuring you floss at least once a
day, brush your teeth twice a day, and use a microbial mouthwash. It is also very
important that you visit your dentist every 6 months so they can remove any hardened
plaque or tartar.

8. How long will it take to get rid of gingivitis?
In most cases, gingivitis usually clears up in 10 to 14 days. More serious cases may take
longer to treat, but only a dentist will be able to determine treatment time.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Gingivitis can easily be prevented with proper oral hygiene and care, as well as
attending regular check-ups and professional cleanings with your dentist. Here are some
simple tips to help you prevent gum disease and maintain good oral health:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with the correct technique and a brush that is right
for you
Ensure you floss properly at least once a day to remove any food debris
Visit your dentist every 6 months for regular check-ups and professional cleans
Avoid smoking: smoking increases the risk of gum disease and other health issues.
When was your last clean and scale? If it’s been over 6 months ago, book a check-up
now.

9. CONTACT : ALPHA DENTAL
MAIL ID: info@alphadentalgroup.com.au
PHONE NUMBER: +618 9313 1182