What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and represents an inflammatory response of the gums (gingiva) to the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth known as plaque. When the plaque isn’t removed adequately, it triggers irritation, redness, and swelling of the gums. Gingivitis is usually painless at first, which is why many people don’t notice it right away, even though it can be present for days or weeks.
What does gingivitis look like?
Common signs include red or swollen gums near the teeth, gums that bleed during brushing or flossing, and sometimes bad breath. You may notice tenderness or gums that seem to recede from the teeth. Gingivitis can affect one or several teeth, and in some cases the symptoms extend to the areas between teeth. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious condition called periodontitis, which involves bone loss around the teeth and can lead to tooth loosening or loss.
Why it happens
The root cause is dental plaque buildup. If plaque isn’t cleared effectively, bacteria irritate the gum tissue. Over time, the gums may become inflamed, bleed easily, and feel sore. While poor oral hygiene is a major risk factor, several other elements can raise the likelihood or severity of gingivitis, including hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menstrual cycles), diabetes, certain medications, dry mouth, and immune system issues. In rare cases, gingivitis can be related to infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal) or trauma from aggressive brushing or irritants.
Am I at risk?
Anyone can develop gingivitis, but risk increases with inadequate brushing and flossing, smoking, and certain health conditions. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and use of some contraceptives can intensify gum inflammation. People with diabetes, immune disorders, or reduced saliva production are also more susceptible. A dental check-up is the best way to determine whether your gums are inflamed and to rule out other causes that may mimic gingivitis.
How is gingivitis treated?
Early-stage gingivitis often improves with improved oral hygiene—thorough brushing twice daily, daily flossing, and regular dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar (calculcus). If deposits have hardened into calculus, a dental professional will perform scaling to remove them, followed by polishing. In some cases, a dentist may prescribe antiseptic mouthwash or other measures to aid healing and control infection.
It’s important to address any underlying health issues. For example, treating an infection, adjusting medications, or managing diabetes can significantly affect gum health. If gingivitis has progressed or signs of periodontitis appear, you’ll likely be referred to a specialist for more advanced treatment.
Is mouthwash useful for gingivitis?
Mouthwash can help reduce the bacterial load in plaque and is often recommended after professional cleaning during the healing phase. Chlorhexidine mouthwash is commonly used for short periods (up to two weeks) under dental supervision. Long-term use is not advised due to potential side effects such as tooth staining and altered taste. Choose alcohol-free varieties if you have a dry mouth or sensitivities, and avoid giving alcohol-containing products to children unless advised by a clinician.
Prevention and long-term care
The best defense against gingivitis is consistent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Practical steps include brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash as recommended by your dental professional. Regular check-ups help detect gingivitis early and prevent progression to periodontitis, protecting your teeth and overall oral health.
