Dental question about taxonomy:condition:gingivitis
Gingivitis is gum inflammation that commonly causes redness, swelling, and bleeding without the attachment loss of periodontitis.
The short answer
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gingiva around teeth, usually caused by plaque at the gum margin.
Why can plaque and other factors inflame the gums?
Plaque bacteria trigger inflammation; calculus, crowded teeth, hormonal changes, medicines, and poorly fitting restorations can hinder cleaning.
How can you reduce plaque and remove calculus safely?
Brush along the gum line, clean between teeth daily, and have calculus professionally removed because brushing cannot remove it.
Which gum changes mean you should see a dentist?
Seek care if bleeding continues, or if there is recession, loose teeth, pus, persistent swelling, or pain.
What should you ask about checking and monitoring your gums?
Ask whether inflammation is limited to the gingiva and how gum measurements will be monitored.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first?
Brush along the gum line, clean between teeth daily, and have calculus professionally removed because brushing cannot remove it.
When is examination needed?
Seek care if bleeding continues, or if there is recession, loose teeth, pus, persistent swelling, or pain.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.