Gingivitis

Gingivitis
Other namesUlitis, Early-stage gum disease
A severe case of gingivitis
SpecialtyDentistry
ComplicationsPeriodontal disease

Gingivitis, also known as ulitis, is a non-destructive disease that causes inflammation of the gums. The most common form of gingivitis, and the most common form of periodontal disease, is in response to bacterial biofilms (also called plaque) that are attached to tooth surfaces, termed plaque-induced gingivitis. Most forms of gingivitis are plaque-induced.

Although gingivitis does not always progress to periodontitis, periodontitis is always preceded by gingivitis.

Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene; however, without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, in which the inflammation of the gums results in tissue destruction and bone resorption around the teeth. Periodontitis can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

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