What Is Gingivitis?
If you’ve ever noticed your gums feeling a little sore, puffy, or bleeding when you brush, you might be dealing with gingivitis—a mild and very common form of gum disease. The good news? It’s also one of the easiest to treat and prevent.
As a periodontist, I see gingivitis often—and I can tell you, catching it early makes a world of difference for your gum health.
How Gingivitis Starts
Plaque is a sticky film that naturally forms on your teeth every day. When it’s not brushed or flossed away, that plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus). Once tartar builds up, it can irritate your gums, causing inflammation and tenderness.
That’s when gingivitis begins—your gums may become red, swollen, or bleed easily. If left alone, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can eventually lead to bone loss or even tooth loss.
Signs You Might Have Gingivitis
Gingivitis doesn’t usually cause pain, which is why it can sneak up on you. Some of the most common warning signs include:
Gums that are red, puffy, or tender
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Persistent bad breath
A receding gumline (teeth may look “longer”)
A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
If any of these sound familiar, don’t panic—gingivitis is reversible with the right care and attention.
How to Prevent Gingivitis
Preventing gingivitis is simple and starts with good daily habits:
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to clean where your toothbrush can’t reach.
See your dentist or periodontist every six months for a professional cleaning.
Avoid tobacco products and limit sugary snacks or drinks.
Eat a balanced diet that supports healthy gums.
When you keep up with these habits, you’re giving your gums the best chance to stay healthy for life.
Gingivitis Treatment in Port Charlotte
If you’re already noticing signs of gingivitis, don’t worry—it’s very treatable. Here in our Port Charlotte office, we start with a professional cleaning to remove any plaque and tartar buildup. From there, we’ll go over personalized home care tips to help you keep your gums healthy moving forward.
The key is catching it early. Once gingivitis turns into periodontitis, the damage can’t be fully reversed—but early treatment can stop it in its tracks.
A Healthy Smile Starts with Healthy Gums
Your gums are the foundation of your smile, and taking care of them is one of the best investments you can make in your oral health. If you’re in the Port Charlotte area and think you might have gingivitis—or just want to stay ahead of gum disease—schedule a visit at the McKenzie Center.
Together, we’ll make sure your gums stay healthy, your smile stays bright, and your mouth feels its best every day.
