Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a dental condition that involves inflammation of the gums due to the accumulation of plaque, a sticky biofilm containing bacteria and food debris, which normally forms on the surface of the teeth and gums. Plaque can harden or mineralize into tartar that further irritates the gums. The main cause of gingivitis is accumulation of dental plaque and tartar, usually due to poor oral hygiene. Other causes include dry mouth, smoking, medicines that reduce salivary flow, diseases such as diabetes, cancer, or HIV that suppress the immune system, ill-fitting dental restorations or prostheses and  hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, puberty and menopause.