Gingivitis ("inflammation of the gum tissue") is a term used to describe non-destructive periodontal disease.
The most common form of gingivitis is in response to bacterial biofilms (also called plaque) adherent to tooth surfaces, termed ''plaque-induced gingivitis'', and is the most common form of periodontal disease.
In the absence of treatment, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis, which is a destructive form of periodontal disease.
While in some sites or individuals, gingivitis never progresses to periodontitis, data indicates that periodontitis is always preceded by gingivitis.
Complications from gingivitis include;
- Tooth loss
- Recurrence of gingivitis
- Periodontitis
- Infection or abscess of the gingiva or the jaw bones
- Trench mouth (bacterial infection and ulceration of the gums)
Further Reading
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