Things You'll Need:
- Mirror
- Toothbrush
- Toothpick
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Step 1
Examine your gums in the mirror. The most prominent signs of gingivitis are swollen or excessively reddish gums. If your gums appear to be inflamed or have a reddish-purple hue to them, make an appointment to see your dentist.
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Step 2
Look at your gums for signs of receding or pulling away from the teeth. Gingivitis often causes the gums to recede, which weakens the teeth and increases the chances of tooth decay.
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Step 3
Feel in your mouth for misaligned teeth, sharp edges from fillings, or poorly fitting orthodontic appliances such as braces or mouth guards. When objects like these rub up against the gums, they can cause irritation and damage, which increases the likelihood of gingivitis.
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Step 4
Check your toothbrush for blood after you brush your teeth. Your gums bleed very easily if gingivitis is present, even if you use soft bristles on a toothbrush. Overly enthusiastic brushing can cause trauma to the gums as well, which increases the chances of developing gingivitis.
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Step 5
Test your mouth to see if there are any sores, especially lingering sores. Persistent inflammation can be a sign of bacterial infection, which includes gingivitis
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Step 6
Watch for gums that itch or demonstrate similar sensitivity. Itchiness can vary depending on the severity of the infection, and doesn't always mean gingivitis. It's very simple to test for, however, and even if gingivitis is not present, itchiness warrants a visit to the dentist.
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Step 7
Scrape your teeth with a toothpick. Plaque and tartar buildup are a sure sign of gingivitis. The toothpick can help spot them, as can a simple visual test, though removing it properly takes a dentist's care.
