What is gingivitis, and how is it related to periodontal disease?
Patients of the Caledonia, Michigan, area concerned about an oral infection will want to work with a dental provider to discuss their needs. Preventative care and daily oral hygiene habits can help avoid issues like periodontal disease. The beginning stages of infection, known as gingivitis, can be eradicated with the help of Drs. Gary Scott and Allyson M. Grove at Family Dentistry of Caledonia, allowing patients to reverse the infection and keep it from becoming more severe and damaging to the smile. Let’s look at what gingivitis is and how it can be managed with the help of a dental professional in your community!
What is gingivitis?
Our dental team describes gingivitis as the earliest form of periodontal disease or gum disease. Gingivitis is reversible with proper diagnosis and treatment. However, if patients do not get a definitive diagnosis and avoid treating it, it can progress to the later stages of periodontitis and be irreversible. Periodontitis is an infection that can cause significant damage to the smile, resulting in bone, gum, and tooth loss if ignored. Symptoms of gingivitis include noticeably swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Patients may also experience bad breath or a metallic taste in their mouth.
What should I do if I suspect I have gingivitis?
Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home, such as brushing twice daily and flossing, is crucial to prevent the progression of periodontal disease and its symptoms. Treatment of the condition is also recommended. This may be done with a professional dental cleaning or scaling and root planing procedure to treat gingivitis. Additionally, your dentist may prescribe specific medications to help eradicate the infection.
Prevent and treat gingivitis early to avoid advanced gum disease
To avoid the development of gingivitis or to get a definitive diagnosis and discuss possible treatment solutions, we welcome you to call Family Dentistry of Caledonia at (616) 816-5882. Drs. Gary Scott and Allyson M. Grove are available to assist patients in and around the communities of Caledonia, MI, and invite new and returning patients to connect with us to obtain the necessary dental work for a healthier smile! We also serve patients in Grand Rapids, Alto, Freeport, Hastings, Kentwood, Cutlerville, and Middleville, MI.