Gingivitis

Diagnosis

Dentists usually diagnose gingivitis by evaluating your oral health and medical history. The process may include:

• Reviewing your dental and medical history to identify conditions that might contribute to gum problems.

• Examining your teeth, gums, mouth, and tongue for signs of plaque buildup, irritation, or swelling.

• Measuring the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth using a dental probe. Healthy pockets are typically 1 to 3 millimeters; pockets deeper than 4 millimeters may indicate gum disease.

• Taking dental X-rays to check for bone loss in areas with deeper pockets.

• Additional tests or referrals to a periodontist if the cause of gingivitis is unclear or if the gum disease is more advanced.

Treatment

Prompt treatment usually reverses gingivitis and prevents it from progressing to more serious gum disease or tooth loss. Success is best achieved when professional care is combined with good daily oral hygiene and avoidance of tobacco.

Professional care for gingivitis may include:

• Dental cleaning: A thorough cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and bacterial products. Scaling eliminates tartar and bacteria from teeth surfaces and beneath the gums, while root planing smooths root surfaces and removes bacterial byproducts. This can be done with instruments, lasers, or ultrasonic devices.

• Dental repairs: Crooked teeth, poorly fitting crowns, or bridges can irritate gums. Correcting these issues may improve oral hygiene and reduce gingivitis risk.

• Ongoing care: Maintaining good at-home oral care is essential. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional checkups help ensure gum health.

With consistent care, healthy gum tissue often returns within days or weeks.