Guide To The Symptoms Of Gingivitis

Bad Breath

An individual with gingivitis may experience bad breath. Gingivitis is one of the most common causes of foul-smelling breath in the general population. Gingivitis, as discussed, is characterized by gums that have become inflamed due to a buildup of plaque on the base of the teeth. Plaque can thrive in the mouth when it is not removed from the teeth properly. Bacteria are living microorganisms that carry out their own biologic processes to sustain life and perform their functions. Just like any living organism, bacteria need a source of food to live. This fact is what makes the mouth such a hospitable place for bacteria to live. Tiny pieces of food that remain in the individual's mouth after eating are consumed and used by the bacteria living in the plaque. The bacteria use these pieces of food to produce energy, reproduce, and carry out other functions. When the bacteria break down these pieces of food, they produce byproducts in the form of gases released in the mouth. These gases are foul-smelling and can cause bad breath.

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Receding Gums

An individual with receding gums may be affected by gingivitis. Receding gums is a term used to describe when an individual's gum tissue surrounding their teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing a larger area of the tooth or the root of the tooth. Receding gums is a symptom that develops slowly, and many individuals who have receding gums may not be aware of it because they experience no other symptoms. An individual who has receding gums may notice they have long teeth, exposed tooth roots, and loose teeth. The biggest cause of receding gums in the population is gingivitis and periodontal disease. The manifestation of receding gums due to gingivitis is not always accompanied by pain or discomfort in its early stages. Receding gums can indicate an individual is affected by gingivitis because it occurs after there has been a loss of gum tissues. The inflammation and infections caused by a buildup of plaque can damage the gums, causing some of the tissue to die off, wear down, and recede.

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