How does gingivitis manifest?
- bleeding gums when brushing teeth or eating
- red, swollen and sensitive gums
- increased sensitivity when touched
- unpleasant feeling or pressure in the gum area
Gingivitis is the most common bacterial inflammation caused by dental plaque. The gums (gingiva) become congested with blood, swollen, shiny, red and easily bleed when touched. Its chronic course is often without significant discomfort. Patients most commonly notice bleeding gums during mechanical stimulation—for example while brushing their teeth or chewing food.
With insufficient oral hygiene, the first signs of inflammation can appear within just a few days. If plaque is not removed regularly, the inflammation may gradually develop into a more serious gum disease.
With early diagnosis, proper daily oral care and regular visits to a dentist and dental hygienist, gingivitis can be effectively treated and prevented from progressing into more serious periodontitis.
You can read more about gum inflammation here.