Gingivitis
Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
Gum Disease Treatment at Southridge Dental
Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease (periodontal disease) that causes irritation, redness and swelling (inflammation) of your gums. Because gingivitis can be mild, you may not be aware that you have the condition. But it’s important to take gingivitis seriously and treat it promptly. Gingivitis can lead to much more serious gum disease (periodontitis) and eventual tooth loss.
The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. Good oral health habits, such as brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental checkups, can help prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Signs and Symptoms
Of Gingivitis or Periodontal Disease
The symptoms of gingivitis are somewhat nonspecific and manifest in the gum tissue as the classic signs of inflammation:
- Swollen gums
- Bright red or purple gums
- Gums that are tender or painful to the touch
- Bleeding gums or bleeding after brushing and/or flossing
- Bad breath (the dreaded Halitosis)
- Additionally, the stippling that normally exists on the gum tissue of some individuals will often disappear and the gums may appear shiny when the gum tissue becomes swollen and stretched over the inflamed underlying connective tissue. The accumulation may also emit an unpleasant odor. When the gingiva are swollen, the epithelial lining of the gingival crevice becomes ulcerated and the gums will bleed more easily with even gentle brushing, and especially when flossing.
Prevention of Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease:
Gingivitis can be prevented through regular oral hygiene that includes daily brushing and flossing (twice per day). Hydrogen peroxide, saline, alcohol or chlorhexidine mouth washes may also be employed. In a 2004 clinical study, the beneficial effect of hydrogen peroxide on gingivitis has been highlighted.
Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease Treatment:
Treatment generally involves a thorough cleaning of the teeth, the focus of which is to remove plaque.
Therapy is aimed at the reduction of oral bacteria, and may take the form of regular periodic visits to a dental professional together with adequate oral hygiene home care. Thus, several of the methods used in the prevention of gingivitis can also be used for the treatment of manifest gingivitis, such as scaling, root planing, curettage, mouth washes containing chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide, and flossing.
Powered toothbrushes work better than manual toothbrushes in reducing the disease.
Are your gums sore, red, swollen or are you experiencing bleeding after brushing or flossing? If so, it is imperative you give us a call and schedule an exam.
- Rogue W.4/03/2021 - Google
I have the worst dental anxiety and have been to so many dentists in my 30 some years, but by... read moreI have the worst dental anxiety and have been to so many dentists in my 30 some years, but by far this dental office is the absolute best! They make sure I'm comfortable, calm, and they talk me through everything. If it wasn't for Dr. Simper I might have waited a lot longer to get my teeth fixed. All the staff have been so understanding and helpful! I will always highly recommend them. You won't regret choosing Southridge Dental! read less
Ouida H.4/02/2021 - GoogleI fell and chipped my front teeth.😐 Dr. Simpler was able to take me in the next day.😊 I didn't... read moreI fell and chipped my front teeth.😐 Dr. Simpler was able to take me in the next day.😊 I didn't know what to expect, but he assured me I would have a beautiful smile again. EVERYONE in the office made me feel very comfortable. In two visits he gave me 4 gorgeous teeth and my smile surpasses any of my expectations! 😁
Thank you sooo much Dr. Simpler. I love my new smile. I can't say I look forward to our next visit. 😉 But it's comforting to know that you and your staff are awesome. I'll be going to Southridge Dental for all my dental care.😁 read lessRandi G.4/01/2021 - GoogleI am a person who has severe anxiety in the dentist office, so much that I've usually had to have... read moreI am a person who has severe anxiety in the dentist office, so much that I've usually had to have gas just to sit in the chair. I was pleasantly surprised by this office. The staff are welcoming and very friendly. They have a warm inviting environment. I've never been treated better at the dentist office. I had no anxiety and felt at ease. Every step was explained in detail. I would definatly recommend this office. read less
- Rachael G.3/17/2021 - Google
This is the best dentist I have ever been to. The staff is super nice. The doctors are super caring.... read moreThis is the best dentist I have ever been to. The staff is super nice. The doctors are super caring. Also might I mention they offer warm neck rolls and paraffin hand was treatments while your teeth are being worked on. read less
Stephanie B.3/09/2021 - GoogleOffice has a very warm and inviting atmosphere, friendly staff where they take their time, answer any questions you have,... read moreOffice has a very warm and inviting atmosphere, friendly staff where they take their time, answer any questions you have, with thorough appointments making seeing the Dentist a pleasant experience... highly recommended!!
Left the above review about 10 months ago! Today I broke a tooth and they were able to get me in and taken care of in the same day... truly a life saver today and very much appreciated! The staff is always pleasant with every visit! read lessMonica C.3/01/2021 - GoogleAmazing dental office! Everyone there is friendly they offer a comfort menu with a variety of things to choose from!... read moreAmazing dental office! Everyone there is friendly they offer a comfort menu with a variety of things to choose from! Paraffin hand wax has to be my favorite! The girls in reception are also so welcoming and amazing at helping me with all of my financial needs. I definitely recommend this dental office. Great prices & it feels like your at a spa instead of a dental office. read less
- Brianna K.3/01/2021 - Google
Out of all the Dental office's I have been in and worked for, this office is by far the best.... read moreOut of all the Dental office's I have been in and worked for, this office is by far the best. The staff is so welcoming, they are beyond amazing. Definitely feel like part of the family and I look forward to continuing my journey with them! This office doesn't make you feel like it's a dental office, comfort is their main priority! read less
Lucero R.2/18/2021 - GoogleVery very nice place, everything was clean, staff was very friendly, doctors and assistance were very informative about everything with... read moreVery very nice place, everything was clean, staff was very friendly, doctors and assistance were very informative about everything with my teeth. Alot of complementary stuff to make you feel even more welcome like snack and warm towels and etc. At the end of my visit the two secretaries were friendly and explained what my insurance covered and what was done to me that day. All in all I'm definitely coming back and recommending my friends and family. read less
Dave S.2/13/2021 - GoogleOutstanding experience. Katie explained the entire process well and was awesome with the imaging and cleaning. Dr. Kayla was... read moreOutstanding experience. Katie explained the entire process well and was awesome with the imaging and cleaning. Dr. Kayla was very nice and the ultimate pro in explaining some issues that I really didn't want to hear about my situation. You need three pros in your life. A great barber, a great auto mechanic and a great dentist. I've just move to the Tri-Cities and have found my great dentist. read less