The Common Cause of Gingivitis

The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. This can be corrected with regular brushing and flossing more than once daily. Recommended brushing is three times per day but twice a day will suffice in most situations.

What do healthy gums look like? Healthy gums are a pale pink color and are firm. They do not move easily off of the teeth and do not bleed when brushed or when a person is eating. The gums hold the teeth firmly in place even when pressured by food or other objects like a toothbrush.

Maintaining healthy gums is relatively easy. Brushing your teeth and flossing at least twice a day is necessary. It is also important to visit your dentist regularly.

Gingivitis is not painful in the early stages and is the number one cause for adult tooth loss in the United States. For this reason, it is important that going to the dentist as soon as you notice a change in your gums or notice that your toothbrush is pink or red after brushing your teeth.

Sometimes the gums will turn a dusky red color and are puffy. Most people with gingivitis also have bad breath, an embarrassing but common symptom of the disease. The sooner you seek care from a dentist, the better your chances of reversing the effects of gum disease and its progression to more serious problems.

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