Gingivitis Gum Disease Treatment And Cure For Bleeding Gums

Gingivitis is a first stage of periodontal or gum disease which is often caused due to excess plaque buildup and inadequate oral hygiene.



Plaque buildup causes the bacteria to multiply and buildup between the teeth and gums, which leads to irritated, inflamed, swollen and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is a minor form of gum disease, but if it is ignored then it can progress to a more serious form called periodontitis which causes destruction of bone and connective tissue and may also lead to teeth loss.

Gingivitis Symptoms, Causes And Remedy For Treating Gingivitis

Gingivitis Symptoms

As gingivitis is seldom painful and an early stage of gum disease, many people don’t realize that they have the disease. But identification of some warning signs like soft, swollen, red gums, bleeding gums even if they are not sore, and changes in gum color (from healthy pink to shades of red) is important.

Gingivitis Causes

When sugars and starches present in food interact with the bacteria in the mouth, they cause a thin invisible sticky film in the teeth called plaque.



Brushing removes plaque but it quickly reforms on the teeth.  If this plaque remains on the teeth then it can lead to hard plaque buildup on teeth and under the gum line – tartar. The more these plaque and tartar stay on the teeth and gums, the more they irritate and cause damage leading to swollen, bleeding gums. Plaque is the most common factor for gingivitis, however other factors like viral and fungal infections, certain medications (anti-depressants, anti-seizure medications and cold medications), other disease conditions like leukemia or pemphigus or oral lichen planus, hormonal changes especially during pregnancy and poor nutrition especially a diet deficient in B vitamins, vitamin C and calcium and high in simple sugar can also contribute to gingivitis. Tobacco use in any form, decreased immunity and diabetes are also other factors which can increase your risk to develop gingivitis.

Gingivitis Treatment

The first step to reverse your gingivitis is to clean your teeth thoroughly and remove all the traces of plaque and tarter through a process known as scaling. This professional cleaning of the teeth will help to treat the problem to a great extent. A dentist may also recommend an antiseptic mouth wash in addition to proper, regular brushing and flossing.



Rinsing your mouth with salt water or diluted hydrogen peroxide solution can also help to treat bleeding and swollen gums. Sometimes it may be necessary to fix minor problems like misalignment of the teeth or poorly fitted crowns or bridges as these can make the process of removing plaque difficult.

The best way to prevent gingivitis is to have a consistent and regular oral hygiene throughout your life. This includes brushing twice daily for 3-5 minutes (cleaning your mouth after every snack or meal) and flossing at least once a day.