Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness, and swelling of your gums. Without treatment, it can progress and become a serious threat to a person’s oral and overall health. While it is often considered a consequence of poor oral hygiene, there are many factors that can contribute to its development. Research even indicates that it can be transferred from person to person! Are you surprised to learn that? Continue reading this blog post to glean more information about the spread of gingivitis and how you can protect both yourself and your loved ones.
How Can Gingivitis Spread from Person to Person?
There are a few ways in which the bacteria that cause gingivitis can spread from person to person:
- You may spread gingivitis through saliva. Sharing eating utensils, drinking from the same glass, or even kissing can transfer saliva and the bacteria that cause gingivitis.
- If you share oral hygiene items such as toothbrushes, dental floss, or mouthguards, you can transmit the bacteria responsible for gingivitis to others.
- Children whose parents have gum disease are more likely to also have gum problems. This may happen because kids’ immune systems are not yet fully developed, so even kisses from a loving parent can place them in jeopardy.
Protecting Yourself and Others
How can you prevent the spread of gingivitis? Here are some practical tips:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and flossing daily. You may also choose to use an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. If they diagnose you with gum disease, consent to any recommended treatment program.
- Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses, and other items that come into contact with your mouth.
- Refrain from sharing toothbrushes, dental floss, and mouthguards.
- Encourage your family and friends to maintain good oral hygiene and seek dental care regularly.
The spread of gingivitis-causing bacteria is a serious matter! Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to protect both your smile and that of those around you.
Meet the Practice
At Wellesley Dental Group, we proudly offer a comprehensive range of oral health services, including gum disease treatment, preventive care, and more. We welcome entire families as our patients, and we would be pleased to help you and your loved ones maintain healthy smiles. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, get in touch with our office at 781-691-4914.