Have you noticed your gums bleeding slightly when you brush? Do they look swollen or redder than usual?
These are often the first signs of gingivitis — an inflammation of the gums that, when caught early, is completely reversible.
In this article, the dental team at Centre Dentaire Fairmount in Montreal walks you through how to identify, treat, and prevent gingivitis so you can protect your oral health for the long term.
Gingivitis is a superficial inflammation of the gums caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque along the gumline. Unlike periodontitis, it does not yet affect the underlying bone. This means it is fully reversible when addressed early with proper oral hygiene and professional care.
See a dentist if your gums bleed regularly, if you experience persistent pain or discomfort, if inflammation does not improve after two weeks of improved oral hygiene, or if you have risk factors such as diabetes, pregnancy, or tobacco use.
Mild gingivitis can improve with consistent brushing twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, daily flossing, an antiseptic mouthwash (chlorhexidine or diluted tea tree oil), and a diet rich in vitamin C. These measures are essential but should always complement — never replace — professional dental treatment.
Gingivitis develops gradually. The most common warning signs to watch for include:
Important: gingivitis is often painless in its early stages. The absence of pain does not mean the absence of a problem. Regular dental check-ups — ideally twice a year — are key to catching it before it progresses.
The primary cause of gingivitis is dental plaque — a sticky bacterial film that constantly forms on teeth. When plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens into tartar, which only a dental professional can eliminate. Several factors accelerate this process:
Treating gingivitis successfully relies on two complementary pillars: professional dental care and consistent at-home hygiene. Both are essential for lasting results.
No amount of brushing — however thorough — can remove tartar once it has formed. That is why the first step in treating gingivitis is a professional scaling performed by your dentist or dental hygienist. This procedure removes sub- and supragingival tartar using ultrasonic and manual instruments. In most cases of mild to moderate gingivitis, a single professional cleaning is enough to reverse the inflammation.
Some natural remedies can support the main treatment, but should never replace it:
Once treated, gingivitis can recur if good habits are not maintained. Prevention comes down to three simple but consistent actions:
Understanding the difference between these two conditions highlights why early treatment matters. Gingivitis is inflammation confined to the gums — reversible, with no bone involvement. Periodontitis is an advanced stage where the infection has spread to the bone and ligaments supporting the teeth. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and is associated with systemic health risks including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Treating gingivitis early is the most effective way to prevent periodontitis.
Experiencing symptoms of gingivitis or due for a full oral health check-up? The team at Centre Dentaire Fairmount, located in the Mile-End neighbourhood of Montreal, is here to help. Our dentists and dental hygienists take the time to provide personalized care tailored to your needs — in a welcoming and professional environment.
At our clinic, we are proud to be your one-stop destination for quality dental care. We are more than a dental clinic in Montreal; We are a committed team of professionals who are passionate about your oral health. At Center Dentaire Fairmount, we not only transform smiles, we also create positive, long-lasting dental experiences. For more than 20 years, the clinic has served the Montreal community with professionalism and excellence in different dental services and treatments.
