Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It typically happens as a result of plaque accumulation on the surface of teeth. Plaque is a colorless, sticky film of bacteria that develops on teeth. Without proper teeth cleaning in New York, NY, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar, which cannot be removed without basic brushing and flossing, so you have to visit Dr. Mitchell Sabbagh for a professional cleaning. Plaque and tartar can irritate your gums, ultimately leading to symptoms of gingivitis, which include the following signs.

Signs of Gingivitis

Brushing flossing and regularly scheduled teeth cleaning in New York, NY, helps you have healthy gums, which are firm, pink, and fit snug around your teeth. The signs of gingivitis include a variety of changes in gums, including:

• Swollen, red gums are often one of the first signs of gingivitis. If you notice a change in the color of your gums, you should make an appointment with your dentist for an examination.
• Bleeding gums is a warning sign of gingivitis. Your gums should not bleed when you brush your teeth, so if it happens, it is often the first sign of plaque buildup due to the lack of stimulation from not brushing and flossing.
• Receding gums often occur due to the inflammation in the gums. Over time, your gums begin to pull away from the teeth, exposing the root of teeth, which may make your teeth look longer than normal.
• Sore, tender gums may be an issue, especially when you eat or touch your gums. Pain and discomfort in the gums are often a sign of gingivitis, so you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.
• Tooth sensitivity may happen due to the recession of gums and exposure to your tooth’s root.
• Bad breath often happens as a result of the gases that are produced by the bacteria. The odor cannot be covered up with mouth rinses, gum, or mints.

Untreated gingivitis may lead to a range of complications, including gum abscesses and tooth loss. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and teeth cleaning in New York, NY, is important in helping to reduce your risks of getting gingivitis. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of gingivitis is essential in helping you get early treatment for gingivitis.

To learn more about gingivitis and to schedule an exam and cleaning, contact Dr. Sabbagh of Aesthetic Dentistry of New York and New Jersey to schedule an appointment. For our New Jersey location, we can be reached at (732) 531-3311, or for our New York location call (212) 840-1000.