Gingivitis- Is Your Mouth Safe? Take This Simple Quiz
How Do You Know if You Are Safe From Gingivitis?
Many more people than you would think are or have been affected by gingivitis in their lives and if you are like many of them, you may not even be aware of it. Though the symptoms-if mild-can be easily ignored as normal, ignoring these symptoms can lead to a worsening of the condition and serious dental problems. Take the following simple quiz to see if you have gingivitis.
Before we begin, what is gingivitis? Gingivitis is a disease of the gums which shows itself in the inflammation of your gums. Since your mouth is constantly harboring bacteria, you must brush well and floss and maintain proper cleaning in order to root it out and avoid bacteria buildup. When bacteria builds up, it bonds with the mucus in your mouth and becomes a hard material called plaque that affixes to your teeth.
About Gum Disease and Gingivitis
Gingivitis causes pressure on your gum line as well as possible tooth decay, if left untreated. Tooth decay comes if the gingivitis has progressed to periodontitis, in which the gum has pulled away from the tooth, and formed a pocket for the bacteria to pool. This is when surgery may be needed. Recognize the symptoms so that you can have them treated to avoid further damage.
1. Press on your gums-do they turn white instantly?
2. Examine your gum line-does it appear that your gums are swollen and bulging around the tooth?
3. When eating or drinking, do you find that your gums are sensitive and tender?
4. When flossing or brushing your teeth, do your gums bleed?
5. Do you find that you have bad breath often?
6. Examine your gums-are they pink or red? They should be a pink color.
7. Are your gums soft? They should be firm.
If any or all of these symptoms are present in your mouth, the chances are that you have some level of gum disease. You should seek gingivitis treatment through your dentist. The dentist will often give you a rigorous cleaning, remove the bacteria, and educate you on better dental care. If the gum disease has progressed, the dentist may recommend you to a periodontist for a deeper and more intensive cleaning to treat periodontal disease.
Gingivitis and Gum Disease Specialist Dr. Hanookai
Dr. Hanookai is an award winning periodontist, having won the “California Society of Periodontology Award” for her outstanding surgical skills. She stresses a “team approach” in her dental practice. “My staff and I are dedicated to providing the highest quality care, with the most advanced dental technology available.”
Dr. Delaram Hanookai is a Los Angeles-based Periodontist who has trained with the world’s most prominent Dental Implantologists. She is known as the “Plastic Surgeon of the Smile.” Click here for more information on Sedation Dentistry. Or call (818) 788-8787.
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