Gingivitis is a common type of periodontal disease characterized by inflammation of the gums. It is most often caused by a bacterial infection that spreads to the gums from the buildup of plaque. The bacteria that leads to gingivitis can actually be spread through saliva, this means, if you have gingivitis, you can spread that bacteria through kissing!
The common symptoms of gingivitis are swollen, tender, red, and bleeding gums.
Whether you have visible inflammation or not. If the other person’s overall dental health is poor, they may be more likely to develop gingivitis from this exposure. Being exposed to the bacteria doesn’t mean you’ll definitely develop gingivitis. The condition generally happens due to long-term issues with maintaining oral health. If you have poor oral hygiene, you may be at an increased risk of developing a bacterial infection that leads to gingivitis.
Gingivitis can affect both children and adults who have poor oral hygiene. whether you have visible inflammation or not.
Good oral hygiene is an important lifelong practice of healthy habits, including:
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day
Flossing your teeth at least once a day
Using a good fluoride toothpaste
Cleaning your tongue with a stainless steel tongue cleaner
Getting professional dental cleanings regularly
All of these habits are important to get rid of unwanted bacteria and keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you have any further questions about gingivitis or other oral health topics, you can either email or call the office any time!