What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis (gingiva = lat., the gums) is an inflammation of the gums. It is caused by metabolic products of bacteria, the plaque. This irritates the gums, which react with bleeding, swelling and redness. Gingivitis is a common occurrence that affects almost all adults.

Gingivitis becomes periodontitis

In 10-15% of cases, gingivitis turns into periodontitis over time. Here, not only the gums, but the entire periodontium is affected by the inflammation.

If periodontitis is not treated by a dentist, it can lead to tooth loss in the worst case. But there is hope, because gingivitis is reversible not only in the early stages, but also in later, chronic stages.

What to do about gingivitis?

The most important therapeutic measure for treatment is the removal of plaque. This can be achieved by professional tooth cleaning at the dentist, supplemented by regular home plaque removal. This, of course, includes regular tooth brushing and the use of appropriate tooth brushing techniques.

Added to this are aids such as dental floss or interdental brushes and possibly mouth rinses with amine fluoride and stannous fluoride. Both have an antibacterial effect.