How is it Diagnosed?
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, primarily caused by plaque accumulation.
Diagnosis is made through a comprehensive dental examination. Patients may report
bleeding gums, bad breath, gum tenderness, and swelling. It is often the earliest stage
of gum disease and is reversible if treated early.
During the oral examination, a dentist inspects for signs such as redness, swelling,
bleeding on probing, and soft or puffy gums. A periodontal probe, a calibrated dental
tool, is used to measure the depth of the gingival sulcus—the natural pocket between
the tooth and gum. Depths greater than 3 mm may suggest early periodontitis rather
than simple gingivitis.
Dental X-rays are sometimes used to assess bone loss around the teeth. Although bone
loss is more associated with advanced gum disease, early imaging may help establish a
baseline for monitoring progression.
In some cases, if gingivitis is persistent or severe, microbial analysis of plaque samples
may be conducted to detect specific bacteria.
A review of the patient’s oral hygiene habits, medical history (e.g., diabetes, smoking,
hormonal changes), and medication use is also important, as these factors can
contribute to gingivitis.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning are key to early detection. The
diagnosis of gingivitis is typically clinical and straightforward, relying on visual signs,
probing results, and a history of oral care practices. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent
progression to periodontitis.