Gingivitis

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gingiva (gums) most commonly caused by the accumulation of dental plaque, a sticky bacterial biofilm that forms on teeth. Typical signs include red, swollen or tender gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing, along with bad breath; diagnosis is usually made by a dental examination which may include probing for bleeding and assessing oral hygiene and risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, certain medications, or hormonal changes.

Treatment focuses on removing the plaque and addressing risk factors, typically through professional cleaning (scaling and polishing), improved daily oral hygiene practices including effective brushing and interdental cleaning, and sometimes antimicrobial mouth rinses. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can cause irreversible bone and tooth loss, so early detection and consistent preventive care are important.