What is gum inflammation?
Gum inflammation (gingivitis) is a condition in which the gums are swollen, sensitive, and often bleed. It most commonly occurs due to bacterial plaque on the teeth.
What helps with gum inflammation?
- regular and thorough brushing
- use of dental floss
- mouth rinsing
- local approaches (application to the gums)
Table of contents
Why does gum inflammation occur?
Gum inflammation or gingivitis is a very common oral issue that occurs at least once in life in almost everyone. It most often develops as a reaction to bacterial plaque on the surface of the teeth.
If gum inflammation is not treated in time, it can progress to periodontitis. In this case, inflammation also affects deeper tissues that support the tooth, which over time can lead to gum recession and tooth loss.
In children, gum inflammation can also occur as part of a primary herpes virus infection, presenting as herpetic gingivostomatitis. You can read more about cold sores here →
Other issues can also occur in the oral cavity, such as mouth ulcers or a sore throat, which may have similar symptoms but different causes.
How does gum inflammation develop?
Plaque forms on the surface of the teeth and is the most common cause of gum inflammation. Dental plaque is a transparent, sticky layer that contains bacteria.
If plaque is not regularly removed by brushing, it gradually mineralizes and turns into tartar. This further irritates the gums and allows bacteria to multiply more easily.
Untreated gum inflammation can progress to periodontitis, where damage to supporting tissues and long-term problems occur.
What worsens gum inflammation?
Gum inflammation can worsen due to various factors:
- poor oral hygiene
- smoking
- stress
- a diet high in sugar
- hormonal changes
These factors do not cause inflammation on their own, but they can significantly influence its course and the speed of worsening.
How does gum inflammation present itself?
Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. Gum inflammation shows the following signs:
- swollen and soft gums
- dark red or reddish gums
- bleeding when brushing or flossing
- bad breath
- sensitive or painful gums
- a feeling of irritation along the gum line
If symptoms worsen or persist for a longer time, it is advisable to act as soon as possible.
How quickly gum inflammation progresses (and why it’s important to act)
Gum inflammation usually develops gradually. At first, it appears as mild bleeding or sensitivity, which many people overlook.
If left untreated, the inflammation can progress into deeper tissues, where it causes more serious problems such as periodontitis.
That is why it is important to act at the first signs. Many people ignore early symptoms because they are not painful, but it is precisely at this stage that worsening can be most easily prevented.
What helps with gum inflammation?
With gum inflammation, it is crucial to act as early as possible, as progression to more serious issues can be prevented in the early stage.
Basic measures
These are the basic steps you can take:
- regular and thorough brushing of teeth
- use of dental floss
- mouth rinsing
- reducing sugar intake in the diet
Local action on the gums
Since the issue appears directly on the gums, products for local use, such as oral sprays, can also help.
They act directly on the affected area and can help reduce discomfort, irritation, and gum sensitivity.
The greatest effect is achieved when you act at the first signs, such as bleeding or gum sensitivity.
How to help locally with gum inflammation?
With local use, it is important that the product reaches directly to the gum line, where the inflammation begins. Therefore, precise application several times a day is recommended. It is important that the product comes into contact with the gums.
Applying it several times a day allows longer contact with the gums, which can contribute to faster relief of symptoms.
The best effect is achieved when you act in the early stage.
-
Smrekovit oral spray
10,00 €
User experience
Shortly after you started your production, I heard about you somewhere. Both my husband and I find Smrekovit products very helpful and we are very satisfied with them… Gum inflammation was resolved already the next day. I don’t even try other products anymore. Everyone in our family uses them.
Marija, Radomlje
[73] handwritten feedback, received 21.3.2016, stored in the Smrekovit archive
The oral spray, which I gently rub in with a soft brush, is a real relief for gum inflammation – even the condition of a slightly loose tooth has improved. In short, Smrekovit will remain my long-term choice in the future.
Darja, Facebook
[256] feedback received on 13 March 2020, stored in the Smrekovit archive
A month ago, white patches appeared in my mouth, under the denture, which caused very severe pain. I tried various gels on the advice of my dentist, rinsed my mouth and gargled, but without success. The pain was so intense that despite analgesics, I spent several nights without sleep. Then I ordered Smrekovit oral spray, which I used to spray my gums and palate five times a day…
Marija Ana, Ljubljana
[254] handwritten feedback received on 11 May 2020, stored in the Smrekovit archive
When is gum inflammation not harmless?
Gum inflammation is often a mild issue, but without timely action it can progress to periodontitis, which causes permanent tissue damage and tooth loss.
Pay attention if:
- bleeding lasts for a longer time
- the condition does not improve despite oral hygiene
- you notice gum recession
- tooth looseness appears
- you have persistent bad breath
In such cases, it is advisable to seek professional help.
Frequently asked questions
What causes gum inflammation?
It is most commonly caused by bacterial plaque on the teeth. Poor oral hygiene, diet, smoking, and stress can also contribute.
Boli li upala desni?
At first often not, but later it can cause sensitivity and pain.
Can gum inflammation be cured?
Yes. In most cases, the condition improves with good oral hygiene and timely action.
How quickly does gum inflammation improve?
In milder cases, the condition can improve within a few days if addressed in time.
Can gum inflammation cause gum recession?
Yes. If it persists for a longer time, it can gradually lead to gum recession. In that case, a larger part of the tooth becomes exposed, which can cause sensitivity and long-term problems.
Does bleeding gums always mean inflammation?
Most often yes. Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of inflammation, especially during brushing or flossing. If it occurs regularly, it is advisable to act.
How long does gum inflammation last?
In milder cases, the condition can improve within a few days with proper oral hygiene. If it lasts longer or recurs, it is often a deeper issue that requires more attention.