Unique to You · Oral Conditions

Gingivitis

Gingivitis explained in clear patient-friendly language, including what to notice, what a dentist may review, and questions to ask.

Oral Conditions

Early gum inflammation often causes redness or bleeding and can frequently improve with effective plaque control and professional care.

Evidence-based guidance

Practical steps for gingivitis.

Overview

Gingivitis is early inflammation limited to the gums, commonly caused by plaque accumulation. It often appears as redness, swelling, or bleeding and is usually reversible when plaque and tartar are controlled before deeper supporting tissues are damaged.

Causes

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, most often caused by plaque remaining along the gumline.
Plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by ordinary brushing and creates additional plaque-retentive surfaces.

Contributing Factors

Inconsistent oral hygiene, tobacco, dry mouth, crowded teeth, and restorations that trap plaque can increase risk.
Pregnancy, diabetes, immune changes, and some medicines may change the gum response or enlarge gum tissue.

Symptoms

Gums may appear red, swollen, tender, or shiny and may bleed during brushing or interdental cleaning.
Bad breath can occur, but gingivitis may cause little or no discomfort.

Diagnosis

The dental team examines gum color and contour, bleeding, plaque and tartar, and measures the spaces around teeth.
Dental X-rays may be used when bone loss is suspected to distinguish gingivitis from periodontitis.

Prevention

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth daily, avoid tobacco, and obtain professional cleaning at an individualized interval.
Ask for technique and device recommendations if dexterity, braces, bridges, or crowded teeth make cleaning difficult.

Treatment

Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar, while consistent home care allows inflamed gums to heal.
Contributing medicines or health conditions may require coordination; untreated inflammation can progress to periodontitis in susceptible people.

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