Which term corresponds to the inflammation of the gums caused by improper brushing?

Which term corresponds to the inflammation of the gums caused by improper brushing?

• A. Gingivitis
• B. Periodontitis
• C. Halitosis
• D. Plaque

Answer: (A)

Gingivitis is the inflamed gums produced by irritation from plaque that builds up at the gumline when brushing is insufficient or ineffective. This inflammation shows up as red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. The key idea is that the body’s response to the plaque irritants causes the gums to become inflamed, but this condition is limited to the gums and does not yet involve the bone or deep tissues. It’s different from periodontitis, which is a more advanced stage where the supporting structures around the teeth can be damaged and bone loss may occur. Halitosis refers to bad breath, which can be a symptom of poor oral hygiene but is not an inflammation of the gums. Plaque is the sticky biofilm of bacteria on teeth, the buildup of which leads to gingivitis when it irritates the gums. By improving brushing technique, brushing for a full two minutes, and flossing daily, gingival inflammation often reverses with professional cleaning.

Gingivitis is the inflamed gums produced by irritation from plaque that builds up at the gumline when brushing is insufficient or ineffective. This inflammation shows up as red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. The key idea is that the body’s response to the plaque irritants causes the gums to become inflamed, but this condition is limited to the gums and does not yet involve the bone or deep tissues.

It’s different from periodontitis, which is a more advanced stage where the supporting structures around the teeth can be damaged and bone loss may occur. Halitosis refers to bad breath, which can be a symptom of poor oral hygiene but is not an inflammation of the gums. Plaque is the sticky biofilm of bacteria on teeth, the buildup of which leads to gingivitis when it irritates the gums. By improving brushing technique, brushing for a full two minutes, and flossing daily, gingival inflammation often reverses with professional cleaning.