How do I get rid of gingivitis?

A professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, combined with daily brushing and flossing, resolves most early gingivitis.

What mouthwash helps with gingivitis?

Look for active ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride, essential oils, or prescription chlorhexidine. Ask us which fits your needs at your visit.

How often should I see a dentist for gum health?

Every six months for most people. Routine checkups at our Glendale office catch early gum disease and remove hardened plaque.

What Is Gingivitis and How to Prevent It

Q: What does gingivitis look like?

Gingivitis appears as red, puffy gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, plus tenderness and bad breath. These early signs are reversible with care.

Q: Is gingivitis contagious?

Not in the way a cold is. Gingivitis develops mainly from poor oral hygiene, and good brushing and flossing can prevent it even with exposure to bacteria.

Introduction to Gingivitis

What Is Gingivitis?

What Does Gingivitis Look Like?

Red, swollen gums that look puffy or enlarged
Bleeding during brushing or flossing – even gentle cleaning can cause bleeding
Tender or sore gums that feel uncomfortable to touch
Bad breath (halitosis) that doesn’t improve with regular brushing
Receding gums that make your teeth appear longer

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Poor oral hygiene remains the primary cause. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque accumulates along your gum line, creating an ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation.
Medical conditions like diabetes can compromise your immune system. Certain medications (e.g., blood pressure meds, antidepressants) can also affect your gum health.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, stress, and poor nutrition weaken your immune system and reduce your body’s ability to heal infected gum tissue.

Is Gingivitis Contagious?

How Bacteria Spreads in the Mouth

Oral hygiene habits
Immune system strength
Existing oral health conditions
Genetic predisposition to gum disease

Myths vs. Facts

Myth: You can catch gingivitis like a cold. Fact: Gingivitis develops primarily due to poor oral hygiene, not bacterial transmission alone.
Myth: If your partner has gingivitis, you’ll definitely get it too. Fact: Good oral hygiene practices can prevent gingivitis even if you’re exposed.
Myth: Gingivitis is always caused by poor brushing. Fact: Hormonal changes, medications, and medical conditions can also contribute.

How to Get Rid of Gingivitis

Professional Dental Cleaning and Treatment

Remove plaque and tartar that you can’t eliminate with regular brushing.
Polish teeth to remove stains and make surfaces harder for bacteria to cling to.
Provide personalized guidance on home care routine.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices

Brush twice daily for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
Use gentle, circular motions rather than aggressive scrubbing.

Recommended Mouthwash for Gingivitis Get Your Confident Smile — Book Today

Ready when you are. Our team at Infinite Dental Wellness makes scheduling a breeze and welcomes new patients for cleanings, cosmetic care, or dental emergencies.