Dental question about taxonomy:condition:gingivitis
Gingivitis is reversible gum inflammation caused mainly by plaque, with bleeding, redness, and swelling around the teeth.
The short answer
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gingiva caused most often by plaque biofilm at the gum margin. The gum may look red or swollen and bleed when touched, while the condition has not necessarily reached the bone-supporting tissues.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Bacteria in plaque interact with the gum surface and trigger inflammation. Calculus, crowded teeth, smoking, dry mouth, hormonal changes, and some medicines can make plaque control harder.
What can you do next?
Brush all tooth surfaces and the gumline with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth daily, and have calculus removed professionally. Improving technique and addressing dry mouth or tobacco use can help control recurrence.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek an examination if bleeding or swelling persists, gums recede, teeth loosen, or pus or persistent bad breath occurs. Those signs may indicate periodontitis or another oral problem.
What should you ask the dentist?
How deep are the gum pockets, is there bone loss, and what home-care tool will clean each space without injuring the gum? Ask when measurements should be repeated.
Frequently asked questions
How deep are the gum pockets, is there bone loss, and what home-care tool will clean each space without injuring the gum?
How deep are the gum pockets, is there bone loss, and what home-care tool will clean each space without injuring the gum? Ask when measurements should be repeated.
Can home care replace a dental examination?
Home care can reduce irritation and plaque, but it cannot diagnose or remove causes such as decay, infection, calculus, cracks, or attachment loss.