Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease (periodontal disease) that causes irritation, redness and swelling (inflammation) of your gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth. It's important to take gingivitis seriously and treat it promptly. Gingivitis can lead to a much more serious gum disease called periodontitis and tooth loss.
The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. Good oral health habits, such as brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental checkups, can help prevent and reverse gingivitis.
Healthy gums are firm and pale pink and fitted tightly around the teeth. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:

Swollen or puffy gums Dusky red or dark red gums Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss Bad breath Receding gums Tender gums

When to see a dentist If you notice any signs and symptoms of gingivitis, schedule an appointment with your dentist. The sooner you seek care, the better your chances of reversing damage from gingivitis and preventing its progression to periodontitis.

Causes The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene that encourages plaque to form on teeth, causing inflammation of the surrounding gum tissues. Here's how plaque can lead to gingivitis: Plaque forms on your teeth.  Plaque turns into tartar.  Gingiva become inflamed (gingivitis).

Risk factors Gingivitis is common, and anyone can develop it. Factors that can increase your risk of gingivitis include: Poor oral care habits Smoking or chewing tobacco Older age Dry mouth Poor nutrition, including vitamin C deficiency Dental restorations that don't fit properly or crooked teeth that are difficult to clean Conditions that decrease immunity such as leukemia, HIV/AIDS or cancer treatment Certain drugs, such as phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek) for epileptic seizures, and some calcium channel blockers, used for angina, high blood pressure and other conditions Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, menstrual cycle or use of birth control pills Genetics Medical conditions such as certain viral and fungal infections

Complications Untreated gingivitis can progress to gum disease that spreads to underlying tissue and bone (periodontitis), a much more serious condition that can lead to tooth loss.

Prevention

• Good oral hygiene. That means brushing your teeth for two minutes at least twice daily — in the morning and before going to bed — and flossing at least once a day. Better yet, brush after every meal or snack or as your dentist recommends. Flossing before you brush allows you to clean away the loosened food particles and bacteria.
• Regular dental visits. See your dentist or dental hygienist regularly for cleanings, usually every six to 12 months. If you have risk factors that increase your chance of developing periodontitis — such as having dry mouth, taking certain medications or smoking — you may need professional cleaning more often. Annual dental X-rays can help identify diseases that are not seen by a visual dental examination and monitor for changes in your dental health.
• Good health practices. Practices such as healthy eating and managing blood sugar if you have diabetes also are important to maintain gum health.