The inflammation of the gums, or gingiva, is known as gingivitis. Commonly, it occurs because a film of plaque, or bacteria, accumulates on the teeth.

A non-destructive type of periodontal disease, gingivitis, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is more serious can eventually lead to the loss of teeth.

The signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red and puffy gums that bleed easily when a person tries to brush or floss their teeth. Often, gingivitis resolves with the help of good oral hygiene like longer and more frequent brushing of the teeth and flossing. Additionally, an antiseptic mouthwash can always help.

In mild cases of gingivitis, the symptoms are so mild that the patient may not even know they have it. However, this condition should not be taken lightly and must be addressed immediately.

Types
There are two main types of gingival diseases, they are:

• Dental plaque-induced gingival disease – This condition can be caused by plaque, malnutrition, systemic factors, or medications.
• Non-plaque induced gingival lesions – This condition may be caused by a specific bacterium, fungus, or virus. It can also be caused by genetic factors; reactions to foreign bodies, such as dentures; systemic conditions, including allergic reactions and certain illnesses; or wounds. However, sometimes, there is no specific cause for it.

Diagnosis
Usually, dentists diagnose gingivitis based on:

• Review of the patient’s dental and medical history and health conditions that may be contributing to the symptoms.
• Physical examination of the teeth, the tongue, the gums, and the mouth for signs plaque and inflammation.
• Measuring the pocket depth of the between the gums and the teeth by inserting a dental probe beside the tooth beneath the gum line, usually at various sites throughout the mouth. In a healthy mouth, usually, the pocket depth is between 1 and 3 millimeters (MM). Pocket depths deeper than 4 mm indicate gum disease.
• Dental X-rays for checking the bone loss in the areas where the dentist sees deeper pockets.
• Other tests may also be needed. If the cause of the gingivitis is unclear, the dentist may recommend a medical evaluation to check for any underlying health conditions. If the gum disease is advanced, the dentist may refer the patient to a periodontist, a specialist in gum diseases.

Treatment options
To treat gingivitis, one must practice proper oral hygiene. It also helps to cut down on any smoking and controlling diabetes. Other treatment options include:

• Cleaning the teeth – Without surgery, there are several techniques to deep clean the teeth. In order to prevent gum irritation, they all remove the plaque and tartar. The techniques include scaling, root planning, and lasers.
• Medications – A number of medicines can be used to treat gingivitis. Some of them include an antiseptic mouthwash, time-release antiseptic chips, antibiotic microspheres, oral antibiotics, and doxycycline.
• Surgery – Gingivitis can also be treated with the help of surgery. Flap surgery is a medical procedure where the gums are lifted back while the plaque and the tartar are removed from deeper pockets. Then the gums are sutured in place to fit snugly around the tooth. Bone and tissue grafts may also be used when the teeth the jaw are too damaged to heal.