Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Reading time: four minutes.
Have you noticed bumps on your gums? They might be more than just an annoyance. These bumps could be a sign of gingivitis.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums. A common symptom of gingivitis is red, raised bumps on the gums. These are called gingivitis bumps or gingival papillae. In this blog, Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA explains why these bumps form and other symptoms associated with gingivitis.
Table of Contents
- What Causes Gingivitis Bumps?
- Common Symptoms of Gingivitis
- Effective Treatment Options
- Prevention is Key
- Clearwater Dentistry: Your Dentist in Greeley CO
Key Takeaway
Gingivitis bumps on the gums are caused by poor oral hygiene, leading to gum inflammation. Though treatable with improved dental care, persistent or painful bumps may indicate a more serious issue requiring professional dental attention.
What Causes Gingivitis Bumps?
So, how do these bumps develop? The culprit is often poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque builds up along your gum line, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. As the infection progresses, it can lead to inflammation and the formation of gingivitis bumps.
Other factors that can contribute to gingivitis include:
- Certain medications, such as:
- Phenytoin (used to treat seizures)
- Cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant drug)
- Calcium channel blockers (used for blood pressure control)
- Dry mouth
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Genetic predisposition
Common Symptoms of Gingivitis
When gingivitis occurs, it can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Swollen gums
- Red or bleeding gums (when brushing or flossing)
- Bad breath
- Painful bumps
- Mouth sores
Effective Treatment Options
Good dental hygiene is the #1 way to prevent and treat gingivitis. If you notice symptoms of gingivitis, implement these simple changes to your oral hygiene routine.
At-Home Care
- Brush regularly: Brush for two minutes twice a day with fluoride or hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Consider using an electric toothbrush for a more thorough clean.
- Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. If you have gingivitis, your gums will likely bleed when you floss. The more you floss-the less your gums will bleed! If you haven’t flossed in a while, you may notice that your gums are inflamed after flossing. This will also get better the more you floss. If you don’t like flossing with string floss, consider using a water flosser.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash: This can help reduce plaque and fight bacteria.
Professional Dental Treatments
- Dental cleanings: Regular dental cleanings help to prevent and treat gingivitis. Your dentist will perform a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Deep cleaning: If gingivitis persists, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning to remove bacteria below the gum line.
- Gum surgery: If gingivitis progresses to periodontal disease, surgical procedures may be necessary to restore gum health.
Prevention is Key
To prevent gingivitis and its associated symptoms, focus on:
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Stick to a diligent routine.
- Limit sugary foods: Opt for healthier snacks like fruit and veggies.
- Regular dental visits: Schedule dental cleanings and check-ups at least twice a year.
Clearwater Dentistry: Your Dentist in Greeley CO
If are you experiencing persistent discomfort or changes in your gums, consult your dentist for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment. Taking prompt action ensures a healthy smile and safeguards against future dental issues.
At Clearwater Dentistry, our experienced dentist, Dr. Alan Baughman, provides expert dental care to patients in Greeley CO and surrounding communities.
If you are searching for the ‘best dentist in Greeley CO’ or ‘dental exams near me’ we can help. Call (970) 515-3550 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
