At Brisbane Emergency Dentist, our expert team provides thorough diagnosis, deep cleaning, and tailored treatment plans to restore gum health before permanent damage occurs.
1. Plaque-Induced Gingivitis
This is the most common type, caused by plaque accumulation around the gum line.
When brushing and flossing are neglected, bacteria build up and release toxins, irritating the gums and causing redness, swelling, and bleeding.
Early intervention can quickly reverse the condition before it progresses to periodontitis.
2. Non-Plaque-Induced Gingivitis
Certain medical conditions, medications, or hormonal changes can lead to gum inflammation even without plaque.
Common causes include pregnancy, diabetes, blood disorders, or allergic reactions.
In these cases, a comprehensive dental and medical assessment is needed to identify and manage the underlying issue.
In its early stages, gingivitis may not cause noticeable discomfort — but visible signs often appear during daily brushing or eating.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Gum recession, making teeth appear longer
- Sensitive gums that hurt when chewing
- Soft or shiny gum texture
- Formation of plaque along the gum line
If you notice any of these signs, book a professional dental cleaning immediately to prevent further progression.
Several factors can make you more susceptible to gingivitis:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause)
- Diabetes and weakened immunity
- Vitamin C deficiency or poor nutrition
- Certain medications (blood thinners, antidepressants)
- Age and genetics
Maintaining healthy gums requires consistent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, especially if any of these risk factors apply to you.
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, a more advanced and destructive gum disease that affects the bone supporting your teeth.
As infection spreads deeper, teeth can loosen or even fall out.
Additionally, the bacteria from infected gums can enter your bloodstream, contributing to systemic health issues such as heart disease, respiratory infections, or diabetes complications.
Early detection and professional cleaning can prevent these risks entirely.
At Brisbane Emergency Dentist, we focus on restoring your gum health quickly and comfortably.
- Professional scaling and polishing to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Root planing for deeper cleaning beneath the gum line if required.
- Antibacterial rinses or medication to control infection.
- Lifestyle guidance — including smoking cessation and improved home care techniques.
For non-plaque-related cases, we coordinate with medical specialists to treat the underlying cause before performing dental therapy.
Preventing gingivitis is simple with the right daily care routine:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Floss or use interdental brushes daily
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
- Avoid tobacco and limit sugary foods
- Visit your dentist every six months for cleaning and gum checks
If you experience bleeding gums, bad breath, or swelling, don’t delay — early treatment prevents permanent gum damage. Our Brisbane team provides same-day appointments for gingivitis and all gum emergencies.