Healthy gums vs gingivitis
Healthy gums are firm and do not bleed routinely, while gingivitis causes redness, swelling, tenderness, or bleeding from plaque irritation.
The short answer
Healthy gums are firm, pink, and do not bleed during routine brushing, while gingivitis makes the gum margin red, swollen, tender, or prone to bleeding.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gingiva, usually because bacterial plaque remains at the gum margin. Healthy gum tissue fits closely around each tooth; gingivitis may look puffy and bleed when the sulcus is brushed or gently probed.
What can you do next?
Brush twice daily with a soft brush, angle the bristles toward the gum margin, and clean between the teeth with floss or an interdental brush. A dental professional can remove hardened calculus with scaling, which home brushing cannot remove.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange an examination if bleeding continues despite careful cleaning, or if you notice persistent swelling, bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, or pus. Facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing needs urgent assessment.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the bleeding is limited to gingivitis or whether there are signs of periodontitis, how deep the gum pockets measure, and whether calculus or a defective filling is retaining plaque.
Frequently asked questions
Can gingivitis improve?
Early gingivitis can improve when plaque is removed consistently and calculus is professionally cleaned.
Does bleeding always mean gingivitis?
No. Trauma, a poorly fitting appliance, medication effects, and other conditions can also cause bleeding, so persistent bleeding needs an examination.