Disease process/Gingivitis

Gingivitis is usually caused by plaque-associated bacterial infection (figs. 3–5). Other forms of gingivitis may be caused by viral, fungal, or dermatological diseases; allergic reactions to restorative and other dental materials; food products, chemicals, or mechanical or thermal trauma. Gingivitis can also be associated with certain medications, including anticonvulsants such as phenytoin, immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine, oral contraceptives, and calcium channel blockers.

The first clinical sign of gingivitis is inflammation marked by redness, swelling and bleeding of the marginal gingiva. Gingivitis may persist without treatment or it may progress to periodontitis.