PEOPLE with gingivitis have inflamed gum tissue around their teeth, caused by bacteria found in dental plaque.

Normal, healthy gums should be firmly attached to the teeth and underlying bone. They are pale pink in light-skinned people, and brown, grey or mottled in people with darker complexions. If you have gingivitis, your gums are inflamed, red and swollen. They will bleed easily and may be tender.

Mild gingivitis causes little pain and may be overlooked. If left unchecked, however, it can become severe. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth.

There are two categories of gingival disease: dental plaque-induced gingival disease and non-plaque-induced gingival lesions.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF GINGIVITIS?

Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that collects on your teeth, especially in crevices and spaces or around rough or broken fillings. The bacteria produce substances that can harm the gums. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into a deposit called calculus, commonly called tartar. Calculus irritates the gums and provides more surfaces for bacterial growth.

Gingivitis may also have other causes, including:

* Changes in hormones, which may occur during puberty, menopause, the menstrual cycle, and pregnancy. The gingiva may become more sensitive, raising the risk of inflammation.

* Some diseases, such as cancer, diabetes and HIV, are linked to a higher risk of developing gingivitis.

* Drugs: Oral health may be affected by some medications, especially if saliva flow is reduced. Dilantin (anticonvulsant) and some anti-angina medications may also cause abnormal growth of gum tissue.

* Smoking: Regular smokers more commonly develop gingivitis compared to non-smokers.

* Family history: Experts say that people whose parent(s) has/had gingivitis have a higher risk of developing it themselves.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND

SYMPTOMS OF GINGIVITIS?

In mild cases of gingivitis, there may be no discomfort or noticeable symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of gingivitis may include:

* Gums are bright red or purple

* Gums are tender, and sometimes painful to the touch

* Gums bleed easily when brushing teeth or flossing

* Halitosis (bad breath)

* Inflammation (swollen gums)

* Receding gums

* Soft gums

HOW TO TREAT GINGIVITIS?

Gingivitis care with a dental professional:

* Plaque and tartar are removed. This is known as scaling. Some patients may find scaling uncomfortable, especially if tartar build-up is extensive or the gums are very sensitive.

* The dentist or hygienist will explain the importance of oral hygiene and how to effectively brush your teeth, as well as flossing.

* Periodically following up on the patient with further cleaning, if necessary.

* Fixing teeth so that oral hygiene can be done effectively. Some dental problems, such as crooked teeth and badly fitted crowns or bridges, may make it harder to properly remove plaque and tartar (they may also irritate the gums).

What the patient can do at home:

* Brush your teeth at least twice a day

* Floss your teeth at least once a day

* Regularly rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash. Ask your dentist to recommend one.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. Dr Robinson may be contacted at 630-4710 or visit the website www.dentalplace4u.com