Gingivitis, also known as gum disease, is inflammation of the gums. It is often the first stage of periodontal disease.
Some of the warning symptoms of gingivitis include-
Gingivitis usually begins when plaque, the sticky, colorless film of bacteria and food particles that constantly forms on your teeth, is not cleaned away every day.
It is hard to see plaque, but in the image below, a harmless dye stains it red. When plaque stays on your teeth for two or three days, it can harden into tartar. Tartar, which is stained blue in the image, can irritate your gums and lead to gingivitis.
Gum disease can also be caused by certain medical conditions, some medications, trauma, smoking or chewing tobacco. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can contribute to gum disease.
To determine if you have gingivitis, we examine your mouth and look for red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Because gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease, we may take x-rays to check your bone levels.
We may also check the depth of the sulcus around each tooth. A sulcus is the tiny groove between the base of the visible part of your tooth and the gum.
If you have gingivitis, we thoroughly clean your teeth and may schedule you for more frequent cleanings. We may also suggest a special mouthwash or rinse and discuss your homecare technique.
The good news is that gingivitis is reversible. The sooner we catch it, the better chance you have of keeping your smile for a lifetime.
Dr. Rehder and the entire staff are friendly and compassionate. They accommodate my needs as a patient and treat me as a personal friend. Professionally, they provide the utmost care and advice, the patient always comes first. I can’t say enough positive comments about this practice.
~Review by Eileen S.
Dr. Rehder is very professional, yet not too serious as he is doing your teeth. He makes it relaxing and is able to keep your mind away from his work (I have never liked going to the dentist, but Dr. Rehder makes the experience as close to pleasant as a dentist visit can be).
~Review by Mary Ellen M.
Thank you Dr. Rehder and Christine for the "always exciting" and "never a dull moment" orthodontist appointment. See you in two weeks to do it all over again. Ok maybe-not ALL over again.
~Review by Elena C.
I had a great experience with Dr. Rehder. He is very informative and professional. All of the staff were so nice and helpful. My overall experience was one of the best I had with a dental office. I would definitely recommend people to come here.
~Review by Paulina C.
Professional staff. Makes you feel at ease, would highly recommend.
~Review by Diane S.
Always wonderful visits at Pinefield Dental. I've been a patient since the very early 90s. The staff is my extended family & takes care of my teeth with the utmost professionalism. This is my dental home.
~Review by Kenneth C.
The doctor and staff were wonderful. My experience is always great. The staff is very caring and always professional. The hours are very convenient as well. They will be able to accommodate anyone's schedule.
~Review by Amanda C.
Richard F. Gittleson, DDS Reviews No one likes/enjoys going to the dentist, but our dentist (Dr. Gittleson) and his staff are so pleasant they help relieve a patient fears.
~Review by Patricia L.
Highly recommended, I’ve been a patient since 1983.
~Review by Charles G.
Excellent.
~Review by Dom J.
