Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease. Essentially, gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. Often, patients will notice irritation and redness of the gingiva, the gum tissue around the base of the teeth. The tooth connects to your gums below the top surface of your gums.
Food and other particles can get trapped between your tooth and the gum tissue. Good oral hygiene that includes proper brushing and flossing can reduce your risk of infection of the gums. Consistent, comprehensive dental exams from our dentist in Burlington, NC, Dr. Thomas Monahan can reduce your risk of gingivitis.