Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, usually due to the build-up of plaque (a deposit of food particles, dead cells, saliva, and bacteria) as a result of poor oral hygiene.
Symptoms of gingivitis include soft, red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing.
Untreated, the gums may recede and the teeth may become loose or even fall out.
Mild gingivitis can often be reversed by good oral hygiene—brushing at least twice a day for about two minutes each time and flossing regularly. In more advanced cases, a dentist may have to remove hardened plaque deposits. An antiseptic mouthwash may help to prevent plaque from building up