Dental question about taxonomy:condition:gingivitis

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, usually caused by plaque, and it can often improve when plaque and calculus are controlled.

The gingiva may look red or swollen and bleed when brushed or flossed. Plaque bacteria irritate the gum margin; if plaque mineralizes into calculus or inflammation extends into supporting tissues, the condition may progress beyond gingivitis.

Brush twice daily at the gumline, clean between teeth, and arrange removal of calculus during a professional cleaning. A dental team may measure gum pockets and demonstrate an interdental brush or floss technique suited to the spaces.

Arrange an examination for persistent bleeding, bad breath, gum recession, pus, tooth mobility, or changes in the way teeth meet. Pain and swelling can indicate another dental problem that needs assessment.

Ask whether the inflammation is limited to gingivitis, whether pocket measurements or radiographs are needed, and which home-care tools will clean around your particular teeth and restorations.