-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
eyes/ears/nose/throat
gingivitis
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition: A condition of the periodontal disease (pyorrhea) group; literally, inflammation of the gingiva.
etiology: primary cause is poor hygiene characterized by bacterial plaqueing.

signs and symptoms

• swelling, redness, change of normal contours, and bleeding
• a band of red, inflamed gum tissue surrounding the necks of teeth
• bleeding on minimal injury
• pain is usually absent

course and prognosis

Periodontal disease generally begins as gingivitis and progresses to periodontitis.
Swelling of the gingiva deepens the pockets between the gingiva and the teeth.
Can be more pronounced during hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and puberty.

Note: If the severity of the disease is disproportionate to the amount of plaque, then systemic disease may be present: ie. ARC, scurvy, leukemia, diabetes mellitus (which all affect leukocyte number and function therefore compromising immunity.)

differential diagnosis

• periodontal disease.
• underlying conditions


footnotes