Anatomy and conditions
Gingivitis
Early gum disease, with red, swollen or bleeding gums, that can be reversed with good care.
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. Plaque irritates the gums, making them red, puffy and likely to bleed when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the bone supporting the teeth is not yet damaged, so regular cleaning and better home care can reverse it. If ignored it can advance to periodontitis. It is a good reason to keep patients on a regular recall.
Example at the front desk
Her gums are bleeding, and the hygienist said it is likely gingivitis, so I put her on a three-month recall.