What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums (gingiva). It commonly occurs because of films of bacteria that accumulate on the teeth - plaque; this type is called plaque-induced gingivitis. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress toperiodontitis, which is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth.
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A patient with gingivitis will have red and puffy gums, and they will most likely bleed when they brush their teeth. Generally, gingivitis resolves with good oral hygiene - longer and more frequent brushing, as well as flossing. Some people find that using an antiseptic mouthwash, alongside proper tooth brushing and flossing also helps.

In mild cases of gingivitis, patients may not even know they have it, because symptoms are mild. However, the condition should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.

(Top) Severe gingivitis before treatment.
(Bottom) After mechanical debridement of teeth and surrounding gum tissues

There are two main categories of gingival diseases (1999 World Workshop in Clinical Periodontics):

• Dental plaque-induced gingival disease
  Gingivitis caused only by plaque
  Gingivitis caused by systemic factors
  Gingivitis caused by medications
  Gingivitis caused by malnutrition
• Non-plaque induced gingival lesions
  Gingival diseases - caused by a specific bacterium
  Gingival diseases - caused by a specific virus
  Gingival diseases - caused by a specific fungus
  Gingival diseases - caused by genetic factors
  Gum inflammations caused by systemic conditions
  Gum inflammations caused by traumatic lesions
  Gum inflammations caused by reactions to foreign bodies
  Gum inflammations without known causes

What are the signs and symptoms of gingivitis?

A symptom is something the patient feels and describes, such as painful gums, while a sign is something everybody, including the doctor or nurse can see, such as swelling.

In mild cases of gingivitis there may be no discomfort or noticeable symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of gingivitis may include:

• Gums are bright red or purple
• Gums are tender, and sometimes painful to the touch
• Gums bleed easily when brushing teeth or flossing
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Inflammation (swollen gums)
• Receding gums
• Soft gums

Source : medicalnewstoday