Definition

1. Noun:
   • Inflammation of the gums: Gingivitis is a common, mild form of gum disease (periodontal disease) that causes irritation, redness, and swelling (inflammation) of the gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Poor oral hygiene can lead to gingivitis.
  • The dentist explained that bleeding gums are a classic sign of gingivitis.
  • Regular brushing and flossing are essential for preventing gingivitis.

Advanced Usage

• "Chronic gingivitis": A long-lasting, persistent form of gum inflammation.
  • Without treatment, acute gingivitis can progress to chronic gingivitis.
• "Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG)": A severe and painful form of gingivitis, also known as trench mouth.
  • Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis is characterized by painful, bleeding gums and ulcers.

Variants and Related Words

• Gingival (adj): Pertaining to the gums.
  • Gingival health is crucial for overall oral hygiene.
• Periodontitis (n): A serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone that supports your teeth; it is often a progression from untreated gingivitis.
  • If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis.

Synonyms

• Gum inflammation: A direct descriptive synonym.
• Gingival inflammation: A more clinical term.

Related Phrases

• "To have gingivitis": To be affected by the condition.
  • Many adults will have gingivitis at some point in their lives.
• "To treat gingivitis": To apply measures to cure or manage the condition.
  • A professional dental cleaning is often needed to treat gingivitis effectively.

Notes

• Gingivitis is typically caused by plaque buildup on teeth. It is usually reversible with good oral care and professional dental treatment.

Noun

1. inflammation of the gums