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Gingivitis is the most common gum disease encountered in human beings.  It is initiated by the naturally occurring bacteria (germs - about 10 billion) living in the mouth. Gingivitis develops as a result of inadequate removal of bacteria.

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Bacteria such as found in gingivitis can be cultured in a petri dish and is clearly visible under a microscope.

 

Healthy gums are slightly pink  and have a textured surface known as the "orange peel" effect.  The gums are tight around the teeth, and there is viturally no space ("pocket") between the tooth and the gum.

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Gingivitis is the most common gum disease encountered in human beings.  It is initiated by the naturally occurring bacteria (germs - about 10 billion) living in the mouth.

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Poor oral hygiene and home care will result in a buildup of layer upon layer of bacteria, seen here as a soft, white layer of plaque. This layer of plaque is so excessive that it has even able to trap food particles between the teeth.

It develops as a result of incorrect teeth cleaning procedures (brushing and flossing) which allows the germs to collect in the grooves between the teeth and gums.

The body then launches an attack against these germs (inflammatory reaction) which results in the signs and symptoms of gingivitis:

  • Red gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Itching gums
  • Bad Breath

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In early stages of gingivitis the area between the gum and the tooth can be probed, a sign that the gum is detaching from the tooth.
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Smokers have excessive build-up on their teeth, as is seen on the back of the front teeth. This is due to natural occuring enzymes, which are needed to help keep teeth clean, being destroyed by the chemicals in tobacco.
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Once the teeth are professionally cleaned, health can be restored to the gums as well.

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Excessive build-up on the back of the bottom teeth as well.

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Once cleaned, the teeth are white and clearly visible.
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If teeth are excessivly round this can form debris trap areas which are difficult to clean.

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Teeth that are bundled together will also lead to areas which are difficult to clean.
 

The good news is that gingivitis is totally treatable, restoring the gums to health.  The treatment involves a thorough cleaning of the teeth followed by continual good, daily, home brushing and flossing procedures.

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