About 47.2% of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease, and this figure increases to 70.1% for people over the age of 65. Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease which, if left untreated, can change into a more dangerous form called periodontitis.
Gingivitis and Its Causes
Gingivitis results in the patient having red and inflamed gums that bleed upon being brushed. There are several causes for gingivitis, some of which are mentioned below:
Poor Oral Hygiene
The most common reason for gingivitis is poor oral hygiene, which results in the formation of plaque and the spread of bacteria inside the mouth. This bacteria can cause infections and inflammation, which weaken the gum around the teeth, causing them to become loose.
Smoking and Drugs
Smoking is generally bad for oral health and should be avoided. Additionally, a few medications can also increase the risk of gingivitis if they restrict the flow of saliva or facilitate abnormal growth of gum tissue.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes that occur during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gum tissue to become more sensitive, increasing the risk of gingivitis.
Poor Diet
Vitamin-C plays an important role in maintaining gum health, and a deficiency can cause several gum diseases, one of which is gingivitis.
Hereditary
The risk of gingivitis can also be hereditary. If the patient has family members who have had gingivitis, the likelihood of them getting it also increases. Therefore, people with a family history of the disease should take extra precautions to maintain good oral health.
If you are experiencing red and inflamed gums, you need to get immediately treated for gingivitis to prevent it from causing more damage.Visit Dr. Anna Grace Clayton and Dr. Carter Clayton at South Main Dental to get examined and treated.
If there's a history of gingivitis in your family or you want to know more about how to maintain better oral hygiene, call us today at 662-489-7768to schedule a consultation.
Dentist Pontotoc, MS | About South Main Dental At South Main Dental, we always strive toward excellence, providing dental services in a comfortable and caring atmosphere and respecting our patients' time. South Main Dental, 209 S. Main Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863-3319 : 662-489-7768 : southmainsmiles.com : 4/21/2025 : Page Keywords: dentist Pontotoc MS :
About 47.2% of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease, and this figure increases to 70.1% for people over the age of 65. Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease which, if left untreated, can change into a more dangerous form called periodontitis. 