When it comes to oral health, most of us brush our teeth daily and hope for the best. But there’s one common issue that often flies under the radar until it becomes a bigger problem—gingivitis. It might sound like just another dental buzzword, but it’s something worth paying attention to.
🦷So, What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, caused by the build-up of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed properly through regular brushing and flossing, it can irritate your gums and cause them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily, especially when you brush or floss.
It’s more common than you might think. In fact, most Australians will experience some form of gingivitis in their lifetime. The good news? It’s reversible—but only if you catch it early and take action.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
While gingivitis itself doesn’t cause permanent damage, it’s often a warning sign of what’s to come. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis—a much more serious form of gum disease. Periodontitis can lead to the breakdown of gum tissue and bone that support your teeth. Eventually, this may result in tooth loss and can even affect your overall health.
There’s also growing evidence linking gum disease to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. So taking care of your gums isn’t just about a nice smile—it’s about protecting your long-term health too.
Signs to Watch Out For
You may have gingivitis and not even realise it. Here are some common symptoms:
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Red, swollen or tender gums
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Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
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Bad breath that doesn’t go away
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Receding gums or gums pulling away from the teeth
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A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s might be time to call us, and book in a check-up.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Thankfully, gingivitis is preventable with a few simple daily habits:
🦷 Brush properly, twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don’t rush—set a timer, make brushing a conscious part of your day and get the full two minutes. remember, we brush in the morning to keep our friends and at night to keep our teeth.
🧵 Floss daily: A great way to visualise your teeth is like dice, or cubes… stacked up against each other the way your teeth are, you can brush; the cheek side, the tongue side, and the biting surface, but you can’t get in-between with a toothbrush. So if we’re not flossing, we’re missing two whole surfaces of our teeth.
🧼 Use an antibacterial mouthwash: This can help reduce plaque and keep your breath fresh.
🗓️ Regular dental check-ups: Come visit your DBay Dentist every six months for a professional clean and early detection of any issues. We can remove hardened plaque (tartar) that you can’t get rid of at home.
🥗 Eat a healthy diet: Limiting sugary foods and drinks helps reduce plaque build-up. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can also help keep your mouth clean.
🚭 Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and can make it harder for your gums to heal. So, though we know it’s difficult, quitting smoking would greatly benefit your oral health.
A Healthy Smile for Life
Looking after your gums is just as important as caring for your teeth. With good daily oral hygiene and regular visits to your DBay Dentist, gingivitis can be stopped before it becomes a serious issue. So if your gums are trying to tell you something—listen. A bit of effort now can save you a whole lot of trouble later on.
Need a check-up or a professional clean? Book in with us, either online or call us at 07 3203 0162