Plaque induced gingivitis
DESCRIPTION: Inflammation of the gingiva is among the mildest but most common human ailments. The gingival that envelops the neck of the teeth is swollen, red and bleeds easily. It is not painful. It may show patchy involvement with skip areas or it may involve virtually the entire marginal gingiva. If untreated, some patients show progression to bulky enlargement of the gingiva called hyperplastic gingivitis. Gingivitis is stated to be enhanced by pregnancy and puberty.
ETIOLOGY: The gingival inflammation is the response to bacterial plaque on the adjacent tooth surface. TREATMENT: Treatment consists of regular dental prophylaxis and the good oral hygiene.
PROGNOSIS: The disease is easily treated and the prognosis is good. If ignored, inflammation may spread to deeper periodontal tissues in which case the patient is said to have periodontitis.
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: Mucosal pemphigoid, lichen planus, dilantin hyperplasia, and leukemic infiltrate.
