Gingivitis is the early, reversible stage of gum disease characterised by inflammation of the gum tissue and, when detected early, can be effectively treated and controlled. The main cause is bacterial plaque — a sticky biofilm that forms along the gumline when oral hygiene is poor. Regular professional hygiene appointments and good daily care help prevent gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a destructive condition that affects the bone and supporting structures of the teeth.
Gingivitis is most commonly caused by bacterial plaque that accumulates along the gumline. Key risk factors include:
Sometimes, despite good home care, gingivitis persists because of muco-gingival conditions — for example, absence of adequate attached tissue, a high frenum attachment, or a shallow vestibule (reduced height between cheek and gum margin). Gingival enlargement (overgrowth) related to medications can also make hygiene difficult and perpetuate inflammation.
Typical symptoms patients notice are:
Diagnosis involves a clinical exam, periodontal probing to check pocket depths, and assessment of bleeding on probing. Early gingivitis shows minimal attachment loss and is reversible with proper care.
Primary treatment focuses on removing plaque and calculus. Typical steps include:
Good daily oral hygiene and regular professional care are the best defenses against gingivitis. For patients in Abbotsford, our team provides personalised instruction, recommends appropriate home care tools (interdental brushes, floss), and sets a maintenance schedule to prevent progression to periodontitis.
If gingivitis persists despite good home care or if you have increased bleeding, swelling, or pocketing, a specialist evaluation with a periodontist like Dr. Mansur Roy is recommended. All these conditions need to be diagnosed and treated appropriately to prevent progression to periodontitis and irreversible bone loss.
Contact Perio Dental to book an assessment or hygiene appointment if you suspect you have gingivitis.