Gingivitis Treatment in Basingstoke
Gums that bleed when brushing, look red or feel swollen? These are early warning signs of gingivitis, a mild but important stage of gum disease. The good news is that gingivitis is both common and highly treatable – especially when caught early. At Hampshire Dental Care, we help our patients restore their gum health with straightforward, professional care that’s tailored to their needs.
We understand that bleeding gums can be worrying – but they don’t always mean something serious. Often, it’s simply a sign that your gums are inflamed from a build-up of plaque. With the right advice and treatment, this inflammation can be reversed before it leads to anything more advanced. That’s why we always keep a close eye on your gum health during your regular check-ups.
Our team is here to support – not scold. Whether you’ve missed a few hygiene appointments or you’re not sure if you’re brushing effectively, we’ll meet you where you are and help you get back on track with honest, practical guidance.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. It happens when plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – builds up around the gum line and causes the gums to become inflamed. This can lead to redness, puffiness, and bleeding when brushing or flossing. You might also notice persistent bad breath or sensitivity along the gum margins.
Left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, which affects the deeper tissues supporting your teeth. But at the gingivitis stage, the damage is still superficial and reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.
That’s why identifying it early really matters. With a little attention and support, your gums can return to full health – often within a few weeks.
What Causes Gingivitis?
The most common cause of gingivitis is poor plaque removal, which allows bacteria to build up around the gum line. Other contributing factors include:
Infrequent brushing or flossing
Smoking or tobacco use
Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or menopause)
Diabetes or other health conditions
A weakened immune system
Certain medications that affect gum tissue
Ill-fitting dental appliances or restorations
At Hampshire Dental Care, we look at the full picture—including your lifestyle and general health—so we can give you the right support and advice.
How We Treat Gingivitis
The first step is a thorough assessment of your gum health. If gingivitis is present, we’ll carry out a professional clean—usually a scale and polish—to remove the plaque and tartar irritating your gums.
We’ll also take time to show you the most effective way to care for your teeth and gums at home. This might include personalised brushing and flossing tips, or recommending specific tools like interdental brushes or antibacterial mouthwash.
In most cases, that’s all it takes. With consistent care and a return to regular hygiene appointments, your gums can heal and stay healthy. If we spot signs that the condition is progressing, we’ll guide you toward more specialised treatment, such as periodontal therapy or deep cleaning.
Why Choose Hampshire Dental Care?
We don’t just treat teeth—we treat people. Our team has years of experience in preventative and restorative dentistry, and we genuinely enjoy helping patients feel more in control of their oral health. You won’t find judgment or lectures here—just honest support in a warm, calm setting.
Whether it’s your first visit in a while or you’ve recently noticed bleeding when brushing, we’ll meet you with understanding and create a simple plan to improve your gum health. Many of our patients tell us they feel reassured just by knowing what’s happening and how to fix it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gingivitis serious?
Gingivitis itself isn’t serious – but it can become serious if left untreated. That’s why we take it seriously early on, while it’s still reversible with simple care.
How long does it take for gingivitis to go away?
Most people see improvement within 1 to 2 weeks after a professional clean and consistent brushing and flossing at home. Everyone’s different, and we’ll monitor your progress and guide you as needed.
Can I treat gingivitis at home?
Good brushing and flossing at home are essential, but once plaque hardens into tartar, it needs to be removed professionally. A hygiene visit is usually the first step in effective treatment.
Does gingivitis hurt?
Not usually. That’s why many people don’t realise they have it. Bleeding during brushing or mild tenderness may be your only clues, which is why regular dental visits are important.
What happens if I ignore gingivitis?
If ignored, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which affects the deeper bone and tissues supporting your teeth. This can eventually lead to loose teeth or tooth loss. Early treatment helps avoid this.
If you’re noticing bleeding gums, soreness, or just haven’t had a clean in a while, book a consultation with our team in Basingstoke today. We’re here to help you catch problems early – and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
