Gingivitis what to do
Gingivitis is inflamed gum tissue caused mainly by plaque, and it usually improves when plaque is removed and contributing factors are treated.
The short answer
Gingivitis is gum inflammation caused mainly by plaque, and treatment focuses on thorough daily cleaning plus professional removal of hardened calculus. Bleeding during brushing is a sign of inflamed gingiva, not a reason to stop cleaning gently.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that collects around the gum margin. If it remains, the gingiva can become red, puffy, tender, and prone to bleeding; saliva can harden plaque into calculus that a toothbrush cannot remove.
What can you do next?
Brush twice daily along the gumline with a soft brush and clean between teeth with floss or an interdental brush sized for the space. A dental professional can remove calculus, polish deposits, check fillings and crowns, and review factors such as dry mouth, smoking, or medication-related gum enlargement.
When should you seek dental care?
Book an examination if bleeding, swelling, bad breath, or tenderness continues despite careful cleaning, or if gums pull away from teeth. Pain, pus, loose teeth, or facial swelling may indicate a deeper periodontal or dental problem rather than simple gingivitis.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the inflammation is limited to gingivitis or has affected the periodontal ligament and bone, and whether pocket measurements or X-rays are needed. Ask which interdental tool fits each space and when a professional cleaning should be repeated.
Frequently asked questions
Should I brush if my gums bleed?
Yes. Use a soft brush gently at the gumline and arrange an examination if bleeding persists or is heavy.
Can gingivitis damage bone?
Gingivitis is limited to gum inflammation; bone loss indicates progression to periodontitis and needs dental assessment.