{"id":8778,"date":"2026-07-09T15:19:29","date_gmt":"2026-07-09T13:19:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/orthodental.si\/en\/gingivitis-gum-inflammation\/"},"modified":"2026-07-09T15:19:29","modified_gmt":"2026-07-09T13:19:29","slug":"gingivitis-gum-inflammation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/orthodental.si\/en\/gingivitis-gum-inflammation\/","title":{"rendered":"Gingivitis (Gum Inflammation) | Symptoms, Causes & Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"

Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the early form of gum disease<\/strong>, in which the gums are red, swollen, tender or bleed when brushing. The most common cause is soft plaque at the gum line. If it is not removed well enough, it can mineralise into tartar, which cannot be removed at home with an ordinary toothbrush.<\/p>\n

If the inflammation is caught early enough, it can often be stopped with better oral hygiene and professional tartar removal. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease<\/a>, in which the deeper tissues and the bone around the teeth are affected.<\/p>\n

Book an examination if your gums bleed for several days in a row, are swollen, painful, receding, or you have bad breath that won’t go away.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Examination at OrthoDental<\/a><\/p>\n

Patient with inflamed gums<\/p>\n

How serious a problem is gum inflammation?<\/h2>\n

Gum inflammation, scientifically called gingivitis<\/strong>, is the early stage of periodontal disease<\/a>. This condition develops from the build-up of bacteria-filled plaque at the gum line. If untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease<\/strong> that can lead to the breakdown of the jawbone and tooth loss. It is essential to recognise the signs of gum inflammation and address them early to prevent this unwanted progression.<\/p>\n

How do we recognise and treat inflamed gums?<\/h2>\n

Common symptoms of gum inflammation include red, swollen and bleeding gums, sore gums, sensitive teeth and bad breath. At OrthoDental we carry out a thorough examination<\/strong> that helps determine the degree of inflammation so we can recommend the best treatment methods. For milder forms, our treatment usually involves more frequent professional plaque removal<\/a> and education on correct oral hygiene.<\/p>\n

Why does gum inflammation develop?<\/h2>\n

The main reason for inflamed gums is poor oral hygiene, which allows bacterial plaque to accumulate along the gums<\/strong>. Other factors that can contribute include smoking, diabetes, certain medications, hormonal changes and genetic predisposition.<\/p>\n

Poor oral hygiene as the main cause<\/h3>\n

The most fundamental measure for healthy gums is maintaining regular, effective oral hygiene. This includes daily brushing, cleaning with an interdental brush<\/strong> and flossing, using mouthwash and regular dental visits for professional cleaning.<\/p>\n

The influence of other factors on gum health<\/h3>\n

Besides oral hygiene, other factors can affect inflamed gums. These include a diet rich in sugar and acids, which can cause greater plaque build-up<\/strong>, and smoking, which reduces blood flow to the gums and can speed up the progression of periodontal disease<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

I want an appointment!<\/a><\/p>\n

Treating and cleaning inflamed gums<\/p>\n

How to recognise inflamed gums or gingivitis<\/h2>\n

Gum inflammation can go undetected for a long time. The signs can be subtle, but it is important not to overlook them. Typical symptoms<\/strong> include swelling, redness and tenderness of the gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, bad breath and, in some cases, receding gums. We advise you not to delay a dental visit when these symptoms appear, as early treatment can prevent more serious complications and restore healthy gums.<\/p>\n

Signs and symptoms of gum inflammation<\/h2>\n

Recognising the early signs and symptoms of gum inflammation or gingivitis is key to timely, effective treatment. The most common symptoms include:<\/p>\n