IS GINGIVITIS CONTAGIOUS ?

 

You may have heard that gingivitis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted from one person to another. But do you know if it is contagious and how you can prevent it from spreading?

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with gingivitis, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is how to prevent the disease from spreading to others.

However, as with all conditions that involve germs, there are precautions you need to take if you want to make sure your friends and family don’t contract the infection.

Gingivitis is a common oral condition that usually affects adults. If left untreated, it may lead to periodontitis and result in tooth loss.

Although it’s not a serious condition, gingivitis can be painful and, in some cases, extremely annoying.

Fortunately, if identified early enough and treated properly, gingivitis can be managed quite well.

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What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the gums. The condition occurs when plaque, a sticky substance made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, builds up on the surface of your teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth.

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, or the loss of the gums and bones that support the teeth.

Gingivitis is common in children and adults. While it often does not cause any health problems, left untreated, it can lead to other oral health issues, such as tooth loss.

Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, bleeding gums. It’s important to note that gingivitis is not the same as gum disease. While gum disease refers to a serious condition that occurs when gingivitis is left untreated, gingivitis is often simply treated by a professional cleaning of the teeth and gums.

How Is Gingivitis Spread?

The bacteria that cause gingivitis are already present in your mouth. You can get gingivitis by not properly removing plaque from your teeth, resulting in an increased amount of bacteria.

The bacteria then multiply and spread to your gums, causing the symptoms of gingivitis. If the gums become swollen and red, they are more likely to bleed when you brush your teeth or eat certain foods.

The bacteria can also spread to other people. If you are not properly taking care of your own oral health, you may be at risk of contracting gingivitis from others.

Gingivitis is usually spread when someone comes into direct contact with your saliva. This can happen when you share eating utensils, cups, or toothbrushes with an infected person.

You may also transmit gingivitis if you don’t properly clean your teeth after having a dental procedure. This can lead to bleeding, which can then be transmitted to others.

How Can You Prevent the Spread of Gingivitis?

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with gingivitis, you may be wondering how you can prevent it from spreading to others.

While it’s easy to contract the condition, it is also easy to prevent it from spreading.

There are several precautions you need to take if you want to make sure your friends and family don’t contract gingivitis. The first thing you need to do is identify the symptoms of the condition, so you can be sure to seek treatment as soon as you notice any signs.

If you notice that your gums are swollen or red, you may be dealing with gingivitis. Once you have identified the symptoms, you need to make sure you are brushing and flossing your teeth properly.

This will help you remove the plaque that causes gingivitis and keep your mouth clean.

Discover how you can keep your gum and teeth healthy here

If you are in close contact with others, it may be a good idea to use a different toothbrush or floss after they have been diagnosed with gingivitis. If you have recently had a dental procedure, make sure you properly care for your teeth after the bleeding has subsided. This will prevent the transmission of gingivitis from you to others.

Conclusion

Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the gums. It occurs when plaque, a sticky substance made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, builds up on the surface of your teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth.

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, or the loss of the gums and bones that support the teeth. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, bleeding gums.

The bacteria that cause gingivitis are already present in your mouth. You can get gingivitis by not properly removing plaque from your teeth, resulting in an increased amount of bacteria.

The bacteria then multiply and spread to your gums, causing the symptoms of gingivitis. If the gums become swollen and red, they are more likely to bleed when you brush your teeth or eat certain foods.

You may also transmit gingivitis if you don’t properly care for your teeth after having a dental procedure.