Dental question about taxonomy:condition:gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, usually caused by plaque collecting at the gum margin, and it can often improve when plaque and calculus are r
The short answer
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, usually caused by plaque collecting at the gum margin, and it can often improve when plaque and calculus are removed and daily cleaning is effective. It should be assessed if bleeding or swelling persists.
What is the gingiva and where is it found around the teeth?
The gingiva is the soft tissue surrounding the necks of the teeth. Bacterial plaque triggers an inflammatory response, producing redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding without necessarily causing loss of the bone or attachment that supports the teeth.
How can brushing and interdental cleaning remove plaque effectively?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between the teeth each day using floss or an interdental brush. Arrange a professional cleaning if calculus has hardened, because a toothbrush cannot remove calculus.
When do bleeding, pain, pus, or persistent odour need dental care?
See a dentist if gums bleed repeatedly, recede, become painful, or produce pus, bad taste, or persistent odour. Loose teeth or facial swelling require prompt assessment because they may indicate disease beyond simple gingivitis.
What should you ask about gum disease and factors affecting your gums?
Ask whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis, where plaque and calculus are present, and whether medicines, smoking, diabetes, or mouth breathing are affecting your gums. Ask for a personalised cleaning technique.
Frequently asked questions
Is gingivitis the same as periodontitis?
No. Gingivitis is inflammation confined to the gums, while periodontitis involves loss of attachment and supporting bone around teeth.
Can gingivitis cause tooth pain?
Gingivitis more often causes tender or bleeding gums than deep tooth pain; tooth pain may point to decay, a crack, pulp inflammation, or another problem.
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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.