MSN: I had no idea my cat had gingivitis! Here are 4 steps to prevent it that I wish I’d known sooner Before my cat Nala was diagnosed with gingivitis, I had no idea how important it was to brush her teeth. The idea of sticking a mint-flavored toothbrush in her mouth sounded like a recipe for disaster ...

Understanding the Context

I had no idea my cat had gingivitis! Here are 4 steps to prevent it that I wish I’d known sooner Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It happens when plaque and bacteria build up on your teeth and cause infection. Common symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding gums.

Key Insights

Treatments include regular dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene at home between visits. It's important to take gingivitis seriously and treat it promptly. Gingivitis does not cause bone loss. But left untreated, it can lead to a much more serious gum disease, called periodontitis, and tooth loss. The most common cause of gingivitis is not keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy.

Final Thoughts

Gingivitis is a category of periodontal disease in which there is no loss of bone, but inflammation and bleeding are present. Each tooth is divided into four gingival units (mesial, distal, buccal, and lingual) and given a score from 0–3 based on the gingival index. Gingivitis is gum inflammation that usually starts when plaque builds up below your gum line, triggering infection. Without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis and tooth loss. This article details the types, causes, and symptoms of gingivitis. It also discusses what a person can do to treat and prevent gingivitis.