Gingivitis
Early, plaque-driven gum disease that responds quickly to professional care.
What it means
Understanding gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest and most common form of gum disease. It describes inflammation of the gums caused by the build-up of plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — along and just beneath the gum line. Because it is limited to the gums and has not yet affected the underlying bone, gingivitis is generally reversible with the right care.
Many people have some degree of gingivitis at times without realising it, as it can be painless in the early stages. The key signs are gums that look red or puffy and bleed when cleaned. Treating gingivitis promptly is important because, if it is allowed to continue, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition.
A GDC-registered dentist or hygienist can confirm the diagnosis, treat the inflammation and help you keep it from returning.
Common causes of gingivitis
Several factors can contribute to gingivitis. Being aware of them can help — though only an examination can confirm what applies to you. Common contributing factors include:
- Plaque accumulating along the gum line
- Inconsistent brushing or cleaning between teeth
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or puberty
- Certain medications and medical conditions
- A diet high in sugar
Signs and symptoms to look out for
Symptoms vary from person to person, and some can be subtle. You may notice one or more of the following:
- Red, swollen or shiny gums
- Bleeding when brushing or cleaning between teeth
- Tenderness around the gum line
- Bad breath
- Gums that have lost their firm, stippled appearance
- Little or no pain in early stages
How we assess it at our Wimpole Street practice
Because the same symptoms can have different causes, an accurate diagnosis always comes first. At Wimpole Dental, a GDC-registered dentist will listen to your concerns, examine the area and — where clinically appropriate — take X-rays or other records to understand what is happening beneath the surface. Our practice is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).
You will then have your options explained in plain English, with a written, itemised estimate before any treatment begins — and never any pressure to proceed. Flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
What to expect when you visit us
From your very first contact, our aim is to make dental care feel calm, clear and unhurried. A member of our reception team will help you find a time that suits you, including evening and weekend appointments, and if you are in pain we will do our best to see you the same day. You are welcome as a new patient, and there is no obligation to proceed with any treatment.
At your appointment, a GDC-registered dentist will take time to understand your concerns about gingivitis, carry out a careful examination and, where clinically appropriate, take X-rays or other records. They will then explain what they have found and set out the suitable options — from doing nothing and monitoring, through to the treatments described above — so you can make an informed decision that is right for you.
If you feel anxious about visiting the dentist, you are far from alone, and we are experienced in caring for nervous patients. Please tell us how you feel when you book: we will move at your pace, explain each step before it happens, and focus on keeping you comfortable throughout. Our priority is honest, gentle care that puts your long-term health first.
Solutions & treatment options
Gingivitis is treated by thoroughly removing plaque and tartar with a professional cleaning, then maintaining a consistent, effective home-care routine. Your hygienist will tailor advice to your mouth and demonstrate techniques for brushing and cleaning between the teeth that make a real difference.
With this combination, the gums typically become firmer and healthier and stop bleeding within a few weeks. Addressing contributing factors — such as smoking or a high-sugar diet — supports a lasting result.
Because gingivitis can recur if plaque is allowed to build up again, ongoing hygiene appointments and good daily habits are the key to keeping gums healthy long term.
The treatment we most often use
Dental Hygienist
Professional scale and polish with airflow stain removal and personalised oral-health coaching from a GDC-registered hygienist.
Prevention & everyday care
While professional care is important, good daily habits make a real difference. The following steps can help:
- Brush twice a day for two minutes along the gum line
- Clean between your teeth daily
- Keep up regular hygiene appointments
- Avoid smoking
- Limit sugary food and drink
- Have your gums checked at every routine examination
When to see a dentist
If this sounds familiar, it's worth having it assessed early — problems are almost always simpler to treat when caught sooner. A £30 consultation lets a GDC-registered dentist find the cause and explain your options in plain English, with no pressure to proceed.
Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions
Yes — because gingivitis affects only the gums and not the supporting bone, it is generally reversible with professional cleaning and good daily care. Treating it early prevents progression to more serious gum disease.
With professional cleaning and consistent home care, many people see their gums become healthier and stop bleeding within a couple of weeks. Ongoing good habits and regular hygiene visits keep it from returning.
Yes, if plaque is allowed to build up again. That is why an effective daily routine and regular professional cleaning are important. Your hygienist can help you maintain healthy gums over the long term.
No. This page is general education to help you understand a common concern. It is not a diagnosis, and the same symptoms can have different causes. Only an in-person examination by a GDC-registered dentist can confirm what is happening and what, if anything, needs treating.
You will always receive a written, itemised quote before any treatment begins. New patients start with a £30 consultation; flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
That is very common and completely understood. Our team is experienced in caring for anxious patients: your dentist will explain everything in plain English, work at your pace and never pressure you to proceed. Let us know how you feel when you book so we can make your visit as calm and comfortable as possible.
Yes. Wimpole Dental is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC), with numbers you can verify on the public register. Our marketing follows advertising standards guidance for healthcare, and we never guarantee outcomes.
You can book online, request a call back, or call us on 020 7183 0692. New patients are welcome, and we offer evening and weekend appointments as well as same-day emergency slots where possible.
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22 Wimpole St, London W1G 8GQ · CQC regulated · GDC-registered clinicians