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Learn your dental terms with detailed explanation
Today's word is "Gingivitis"
Gingivitis : 'Swelling That Affects The Gums'.
In our previous post, we discussed non-carious lesions of teeth in detail. Today, we are shifting our focus to gum disease known as gingivitis, characterized by swelling of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can cause irreversible damage to the teeth and their surrounding tissues. So, let's explore more about gingivitis in today's Dentoword journey.
Definition:
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque induced by bacteria, a soft, sticky film that forms on teeth and affects the gums.
Causes Of Gingivitis :
1.Plaque-induced :
Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque accumulation, which affects the gingiva.
2.Poor oral habits : Smoking, mouth breathing, and external irritation by foreign objects can cause gingivitis.
3.Drug-induced :
Certain medications like antihypertensive drugs and antiepileptic drugs can cause gingivitis.
4.Certain medical Conditions :
Medical conditions such as HIV, diabetes, and leukemia can increase the risk of gingivitis.
5.Hormonal changes induced :
Puberty, pregnancy, and menstruation can lead to gingivitis due to hormonal imbalance and poor oral hygiene.
6.Nutritional imbalance : Deficiency in vitamins like Vitamin C, vitamin B and other nutrients can cause gingival problems.
Clinical Features of Gingivitis :
A. Earliest signs of Gingivitis include :
- Increased gingival crevicular fluid rate.
- Bleeding on gentle probing examination.
In gingivitis, the gingiva changes to red due to increased vascularization.
C. Consistency of gingiva : Swelling, loss of stippling, and discoloration occur when inflammatory exudate and edema predominate in the gingiva. The gingiva becomes soft, friable, and bleeds easily.
D. Receding gum line : Plaque accumulation can cause gingivitis and lead to receding gums.
E. Bad breath :
Poor oral hygiene can cause gingivitis and bad breath.
Diagnosis of Gingivitis :
1.Clinical examination : Visual examination of gingival color, consistency, and contour changes is crucial. Probing around the gingiva is also important to check for initial signs of bleeding on probing.
2.Radiological examination :
Dentists examine radiographs to detect any underlying damage associated with gingivitis.
3.Medical and habit history :
A detailed patient history is essential for diagnosing gingivitis and determining its causes for appropriate treatment.
Prevention and Management of Gingivitis:
1.Oral hygiene practices :
- Brush twice daily, including flossing and tongue cleaning.
- Gingival massage is important to combat gum diseases.
- Professional cleaning is essential to remove plaque and improve gingival health.
- Use mouthwash to fight bacteria and prevent plaque formation.
Visit your dentist every six months to catch gum conditions early and prevent the progression of the disease.
3.Quit smoking :
Avoid smoking to prevent gum problems.
4.Treat underlying medical conditions :
Manage conditions like diabetes and leukemia to prevent gingival symptoms.
5.Balanced diet :
Ensure a diet rich in nutrients and vitamins to support overall health.
6.Alternative medications :
If current medications cause gingivitis, consult your doctor to explore alternative drugs that minimize effects on the gums.
Conclusion:
Gingivitis is a reversible condition if caught early. By understanding its causes, prevention, and treatment, we can combat gingivitis and prevent the disease from progressing, preserving our coral pink-covered smiles forever.
Request to Reader :
Thank you for reading! If you have any doubts, please let me know in the comment section. If you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, make an appointment with your dentist today. Stay healthy with a healthy smile.
References :
1. Carranza's Clinical Periodontology-Ebook: Third South Asia Edition,Chini Doraiswami Dwarakanath,
Elsevier.
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