Inadequate oral hygiene that leads to longterm plaque buildup is a major cause of gingivitis. Injuries to the gums from over-brushing or over-flossing along with misaligned teeth or ill-fitting crowns, bridges, and dentures can also cause gingivitis. Diabetes, smoking, poor nutrition, puberty, hormonal fluctuations, systemic diseases and conditions, stress, pregnancy, substance abuse, HIV, and some pharmaceutical drugs are also associated with the problem. It has also been found to run in families.
Gingivitis is reversible with professional care and good oral care at home. If left untreated, however, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, a considerably more serious condition that can result in tissue and bone loss which in turn can severely compromise the integrity of the teeth. The goal is pink healthy gums. Once patients have had gingivitis, strict and meticulous oral hygiene must be maintained throughout life to avoid recurrence.
Treatment for gingivitis - inflammation of gingiva (gums) only requires one or two regular dental cleanings. Recovery time is one to two weeks. The treatment of periodontitis - inflammation of gingiva, bone, periodontal ligament and other support structures requires much more strenous treatment (scaling and root planing). The recovery time necessary to get back to having healthy gums is one to two months.
