Gingivitis

Inflammation of the gingiva characterized by erythema, edema, and a tendency to bleed, without radiographic evidence of alveolar bone loss or periodontal attachment loss.

Causes

• Dental plaque biofilm at the gingival margin: Poor hygiene and hard-to-clean spots

• Hormonal causes

  • Puberty

  • Pregnancy

  • Menstrual hormonal changes

• Systemic diseases

  • Diabetes mellitus

  • Leukemia

  • HIV/AIDS

• Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy)

• Medications: Phenytoin, calcium channel blockers

• Tobacco smoking