Signs and symptoms of gingivitis
- Swollen gums
- Bright red gums
- Tender or painful gums
- Bleeding gums after brushing and flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis)

Complications of gingivitis
- Recurrence of gingivitis
- Periodontitis
- Infection or abscess of the gingiva or jaw bones
- Trench mouth (bacterial infection and ulceration of the gums)
- Swollen lymph nodes

Potential link between gingivitis and Alzheimer's disease
- Gingivitis bacteria may be linked to Alzheimer's disease
- P. gingivalis bacteria can migrate from the mouth to the brain in mice
- P. gingivalis can reproduce features of Alzheimer's disease in the brain
- More research is needed to establish a cause and effect link

Causes and diagnosis of gingivitis
- Plaque-induced gingivitis is the most common form of gingival disease
- Bacterial plaque is the cause of plaque-induced gingivitis
- Destruction of gingival tissues can occur due to the body's host response
- Gingivitis is a category of periodontal disease without bone loss
- Diagnosis of gingivitis is done through a comprehensive periodontal exam

Treatment and prevention of gingivitis
- Removal of plaque is the focus of treatment
- Regular visits to a dental professional and oral hygiene home care are recommended
- Methods for prevention can also be used for treatment, such as scaling, root planing, and mouthwashes
- Powered toothbrushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes
- Active ingredients like triclosan and chlorhexidine reduce plaque and inflammation
- Prevention strategies include brushing teeth twice a day, flossing daily, using mouthwash, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding tobacco products
- Treatment options include professional dental cleaning, antibacterial mouthwash, topical antibiotics, dental procedures to remove plaque and tartar, and improved oral hygiene practices

Gingivitis (Wikipedia)

Gingivitis is a non-destructive disease that causes inflammation of the gums; ulitis is an alternative term. The most common form of gingivitis, and the most common form of periodontal disease overall, 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.

Gingivitis
A severe case of gingivitis
Specialty	Dentistry
Complications	Periodontal disease

While some cases of gingivitis never 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.