Gingivitis ("
inflammation of the
gum tissue") is a non-destructive
periodontal disease. The most common form of gingivitis, and the most common form of
periodontal disease overall, is in response to bacterial
biofilms (also called
plaque) adherent to tooth surfaces, termed
plaque-induced gingivitis. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene. However, in the absence of treatment, or if not controlled, gingivitis can progress to
periodontitis, where the inflammation results in tissue destruction and alveolar
bone resorption, which can ultimately lead to tooth loss.