Health Tip: Recognizing Gingivitis

(HealthDay News) -- Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is a form of periodontal disease that''s caused by the long-term effects of plaque deposits.

Plaque that isn''t removed by brushing and other forms of dental care forms a hard deposit called tartar where teeth meet the gum line. Plaque and tartar can cause the gums to become infected, swollen, and tender.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists these common signs that you may have gingivitis:

• Sores in the mouth.
• Swollen or bleeding gums.
• Red, purplish or shiny gums.
• Tenderness when you touch the gums.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Jan. 30, 2007

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