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Gingivitis

Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease. Gingivitis causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushed, and it may cause bad breath.

Because pain is not usually a symptom of gingivitis, many people do not seek treatment. If not treated, gum disease can progress to advanced gum disease (periodontitis), which may lead to loss of teeth.

Gingivitis is caused by poor tooth care. It can be prevented, treated, and reversed by brushing twice a day-in the morning and before bedtime-and flossing once a day.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Last Revised August 21, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 21, 2009
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.