What is Gingivitis, and What can I do About it?
This common type of gingivitis is often referred to as "plaque-induced gingivitis". It is a form of non-destructive gum disease, that left untreated by a dentist, can progress into periodontitis and eventual tooth loss. Possible complications resulting from untreated gum disease can include dental abscesses, infections, periodontitis, and trench mouth. Many studies have also linked gum disease, gingivitis and periodontitis to systemic conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, pre-term birth and lung diseases.Inflammation of the gingiva as a response to bacterial plaque on adjacent teeth; characterized by erythema, edema, and fibrous enlargement of the gingiva without resorption of the underlying alveolar bone.
- Systemic disease [diabetes, cancer, HIV]
- Medication [those that limit saliva production, dilantin, and some anti-hypertensive medications]- Smoking [smokers more commonly develop gingivitis vs non-smokers]- Hormones [changes that occur during puberty, menopause, and pregnancy]