Gingivitis (Gingivitis) is one of the common oral health problems found in all ages. The main cause is the accumulation of plaque (Plaque) which consists of bacteria that accumulate on the surface of the teeth and gums.
Development of Gingivitis
Accumulation of plaque on the tooth surface is initially not visible to the naked eye. If left for a longer time, a soft white plaque can be seen accumulating on the tooth surface near the gum line. Plaque that remains for a long time will accumulate minerals and harden, becoming tartar or calculus. Tartar facilitates further plaque accumulation and is difficult to clean at home. The accumulated plaque stimulates the gums to bleed and become inflamed.
Development of Periodontitis (Periodontitis)
Gingivitis that becomes chronic inflammation and is left untreated may cause loss of attachment between the gums and teeth and progress to the supporting bone around the tooth roots, resulting in bone loss. This leads to periodontitis. Patients with poorly controlled diabetes or smokers are at higher risk of severe inflammation compared to healthy individuals.
Main Factors Causing Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Plaque accumulation results from improper or incomplete tooth brushing and the use of interdental cleaning tools such as dental floss.
Contributing and Risk Factors for Gingivitis
- Tartar above and below the gums
- Smoking
- Poorly controlled diabetes
Symptoms of Gingivitis and Periodontitis
- Bleeding when brushing teeth or using dental floss
- Red or swollen gums
- Pus-filled bumps on the gums
- Loose teeth
Treatment of Gingivitis and Periodontitis
- Brush teeth and use interdental cleaning tools properly at least twice a day
- Scaling The dentist will remove tartar from the teeth
- Root planing For patients with periodontitis, the dentist will remove tartar below the gums
- Gum surgery and bone graft surgery In cases where deep periodontal pockets remain after scaling and root planing, gum surgery/bone graft surgery can help eliminate deep pockets and restore lost bone.
- Periodontal maintenance After treatment, the dentist will schedule follow-up appointments every 3 – 6 months for maintenance, depending on the risk level.
Care and Prevention of Gingivitis and Periodontitis
- Brush teeth and use interdental cleaning tools such as dental floss or interdental brushes properly at least twice a day
- Have regular oral health check-ups
- Have regular health check-ups to control risk factors such as diabetes
- Quit smoking. If you smoke, plan to quit to reduce the severity of the disease.
Gingivitis is a preventable and treatable disease if proper oral care is maintained and regular oral health check-ups are done. Do not overlook minor symptoms such as red gums or bleeding when brushing teeth, as these may be warning signs of a disease that can progress to periodontitis.
