Gingivitis is an extremely common oral health issue that roughly three-quarters of Americans will experience at some point in their lives. This early form of gum disease is often a consequence of poor oral hygiene, but is that the only possible cause? Could you get gingivitis from someone else as well? And if so, what steps can you take to protect the health of your gums?
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a mild infection of the gums that can occur when harmful bacteria are allowed to build up in your mouth. It often results in gum tissue that is red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. In many cases, it’s possible to reverse gingivitis by improving your oral hygiene. But if you wait too long to address the problem, it could turn into periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss and increase your risk for heart problems.
Is Gingivitis Contagious?
In a way, the answer is yes and no. Gingivitis is not directly contagious in the same way that the flu is. However, if you exchange saliva with someone who has early gum disease – such as by kissing or sharing a fork – they might transfer some of the bacteria responsible for the infection to your mouth. As a result, you may be at a higher risk of developing gingivitis yourself.
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself from Gingivitis?
The good news is that it’s possible to prevent gingivitis simply by taking the right precautions. One step you can take, of course, is to avoid unnecessary saliva exchange. For the sake of your dental health, it’s best not to share unwashed cups and eating utensils with other people.
Of course, you should also practice good oral hygiene in order to avoid the buildup of plaque and tartar that could ultimately lead to gum disease. Be sure to brush at least two times a day, and don’t forget to thoroughly clean the area where the teeth meet the gums. Additionally, you should also get in the habit of flossing every day so that you can get rid of the bacteria that might be hiding in the hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth.
Finally, you should make a point of scheduling a routine dental checkup and cleaning every six months. During these visits, your dentist can check for warning signs of gingivitis that you may not have noticed on your own; if they find any, they’ll explain what steps can be taken to address the problem long before it can turn into a serious threat to your oral health.
By making sure that you’re fully aware of the potential causes of gingivitis and taking the appropriate steps to prevent it, you can protect your gums and keep your smile in excellent health.
About the Author
Dr. Dan Greenwood has been operating Greenwood Dental in Sagamore Hills since 1998. He studied dentistry at The Ohio State University, and he holds membership with the Ohio Dental Association, the Cleveland Dental Society, and the American Dental Association. He offers scaling and root planing, antibiotic treatments, and soft-tissue laser treatments as solutions for gum disease. If you’re worried about the health of your gums, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Greenwood by visiting his website or calling (330) 467-2522.