Gingivitis
Pronunciation: jin-jih-VY-tis
Reversible inflammation of the gingival tissues, characterised by redness, swelling, and bleeding on probing, without loss of periodontal attachment.
Full Definition
Gingivitis is the mildest and most common form of periodontal disease, defined by gingival inflammation confined to the soft tissues without apical migration of the junctional epithelium or loss of supporting bone. Clinical signs include erythema, oedema, and bleeding on probing (BOP). Because it is reversible with adequate plaque control and professional debridement, gingivitis is distinguished from periodontitis, which involves irreversible attachment loss. Editors should be careful not to use 'gingivitis' and 'periodontitis' interchangeably; they represent distinct diagnoses with different treatment implications.
Usage
Usage note: Do not use 'gingivitis' as a generic synonym for any gum disease. Reserve it specifically for inflammation without attachment loss. In lay documents, a parenthetical explanation is advisable.
In Context
- "The patient's diagnosis was plaque-induced gingivitis, and homecare instruction was provided at the appointment." — Clinical chart note
- "The author incorrectly used 'gingivitis' to describe bone loss; the correct term in that context is 'periodontitis'." — Manuscript review comment