Red, puffy gums that bleed when you brush are classic signs of gingivitis. The good news is that at this stage, there is no permanent damage. Gingivitis Treatment Edmonton can include professional cleaning along with two weeks of consistent home care to help improve gum health.
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissue caused by plaque sitting along the gumline. Bacteria in the plaque release toxins, causing the gums to swell and receive more blood flow, which is why they may look red and bleed easily. Gingivitis Treatment Edmonton can help address plaque and tartar buildup and support healthier gums.
It matters because untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, where the infection reaches the bone and the damage becomes permanent. Caught as gingivitis, it is completely reversible.
Healthy gums are pale pink, firm and stippled like an orange peel, and they do not bleed. Gingivitis gums are darker red, smooth and puffy, and bleed when brushed or flossed. Breath may be worse. There is usually no pain, which is why it is easy to ignore.
Smokers often have gingivitis without bleeding because nicotine constricts blood vessels. No bleeding is not proof of health.
Plaque is the cause, full stop. Some factors make the gums react more strongly to the same amount of plaque: hormonal changes in puberty, pregnancy and menopause, diabetes, some medications, mouth breathing, crowded teeth, and dental work with rough edges that traps plaque.
Vitamin C deficiency can also cause bleeding gums but is rare in Canada.
Treatment at Yours Dental Hygiene is straightforward:
After your cleaning, healthy gums depend on:
Gingivitis is worth treating now when:
Yours Dental Hygiene treats gingivitis in southeast Edmonton with evening and weekend appointments, direct billing and CDCP coverage.
