The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene that facilitates the formation of plaques, plaques are invisible, sticky films that are the result of bacterial accumulation on when starches and sugars in food interact with bacteria normally found in the oral cavity. Brushing teeth at least twice a day and flossing each day removes plaque. Plaque requires daily removal because it re-forms quickly, usually within 24 hours.
Plaque that stays on the teeth for more than two or three days can become harder in consistency, and turn into tartar (calculus) under the gum line. Tartar can also develop resulting from the mineral content in the saliva. Tartar renders the removal of plaque more difficult and acts a protective shield for bacteria. You usually can't get rid of tartar by brushing and flossing — you need a professional dental cleaning to remove it.
Gingival irritation grows worse with prolonged presence of plaque and tartar on your teeth. With time, the gums swell and bleed easily. Tooth decay (dental caries) also may result.
Risk factors include: tobacco smoking, certain medications, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth (especially if you have nose blockage and you breathe through your mouth at night), fungal infection (oral thrush or candida in the mouth), and previous dental procedures. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause, so you need to visit your dentist.
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Annual Checkup
It is recommended that all individuals see a Family Doctor for a full medical examination annually. Adults should get their blood pressure checked (US Preventive Task Force), a flu vaccine (CDC) and more each year.
The American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings for adults at least twice annually. Some stains can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
It’s recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that every adult between the ages of 18 and 80 does an eye examination at least once every two years.
It's recommended by the American Cancer Association that every adult between the age of 20 and 80 does an annual skin screening by a licensed dermatologist.
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