There are many ways to transfer illness, especially during cold and flu season. Washing your hands, wearing a protective face mask, and cleaning contaminated surfaces are all excellent ways to prevent germs from spreading. But what about gingivitis? Believe it or not, you can pass this condition from person to person much like you can the common cold. Here’s how to prevent this from happening to you or someone you love.
What Causes Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a reversible, early form of gum disease. With proper care, you can get rid of it before it turns into periodontal disease, but to do so you must take care of your teeth and gums properly. It is caused by a proliferation of oral bacteria that infects the gum tissue. These same bacteria can also cause cavities and decay in your teeth, but when it infiltrates your gums, it can cause redness, swelling, bleeding, and sensitivity. If left untreated, it can eventually lead to tooth loss and jawbone deterioration.
How Does Gingivitis Spread?
If you already have gingivitis, it is possible for you to spread it to others. That’s because the s. mutans bacteria that causes it can hitch a ride from mouth to mouth on shared cups, utensils, water bottles, and more. If you brush and floss your teeth well after doing this, there’s a good chance you can wipe it out before it has a chance to do any real damage; however, if you already have poor oral hygiene, this introduction of new bacteria can make things go from bad to worse.
How Do I Prevent the Spread of Gingivitis?
Stopping gingival bacteria from infecting others can be done by following a few simple steps, including:
- Never sharing utensils or anything that could pass saliva from person to person.
- If you do, be sure to brush your teeth and floss well afterwards.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist twice a year for your semi-annual exams and cleanings.
Warning Signs of Gingivitis
It can be hard to diagnose gingivitis without the help of your dentist, but if you are noticing that your gums bleed when you brush and floss your teeth, or if they appear red, puffy, or swollen, you could be at risk.
How Do I Treat Gingivitis?
If you have gingivitis, or suspect that you could, the first step is to ensure that you are taking proper care of your teeth and gums. You can do this by following the steps above. If an increase in brushing and flossing is still not helping and you continue to notice blood during your oral hygiene routine, schedule an appointment with your dentist at your earliest convenience. While there is a good chance it’s reversible, there is a possibility that you could have a more advanced case or periodontitis.
Remember, gingivitis can spread easily from person to person, so be careful when sharing eating implements. If you suspect that you could have it, speak to your dentist about treatment, as it is still very curable in its early stages.
About Our Practice
At Cranford Center for Periodontics & Dental Implants, our team of board-certified periodontists understand the importance of protecting both your teeth and your gums when caring for your oral health. With nearly 50 percent of the adult population of the United States already having gingivitis, and a staggering 90 percent of the world’s population suffering from some form of gum disease, protecting your mouth from this oral epidemic is more important than ever.
To schedule an appointment for gum disease treatment, our caring, compassionate team is here to help. Please visit our website today or call us at 908-709-6777.