Gingivitis (Gum Inflammation)

Reversible inflammation of the gums

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 12, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Gingivitis (Gum Inflammation)?

Gingivitis is a reversible gum disease that develops when bacterial plaque accumulating on the tooth surface causes an inflammatory response at the gum margin. There is no bone loss; this feature distinguishes it from periodontitis.

Plaque-induced gingivitis is the most common form; hormonal gingivitis (pregnancy, puberty), drug-induced gingival overgrowth (phenytoin, cyclosporine, nifedipine), and gingivitis due to systemic diseases are other forms.

Complete recovery is achieved with professional dental cleaning and effective oral hygiene practices in treatment.

Symptoms

Gum bleeding (during brushing)

Gum redness and swelling

Gum tenderness

Bad breath

Plaque and tartar accumulation at the gum margin

Change in gum color (red-purplish)

Risk Factors

Inadequate oral hygiene

Smoking

Pregnancy and hormonal changes

Diabetes

Some medications (phenytoin, cyclosporine)

Mouth breathing

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

When gum bleeding starts during brushing
Significant redness and swelling in gums
If bad breath persists
Regular check-up every 6 months

Treatment Methods

Professional dental scaling

Oral hygiene education (brushing, dental floss)

Antiseptic mouthwash (chlorhexidine, short-term)

Electric toothbrush recommendation

Hormonal balance check in hormonal gingivitis

Drug change in drug-induced gingival overgrowth

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Diş Çürüğü

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Diş çürüğü, ağız bakterilerinin şekeri fermente ederek ürettiği asitlerin diş minesi, dentin ve pulpayı tahrip etmesiyle oluşan kronik bir hastalıktır.

Diş Eti Hastalıkları (Periodontal Hastalıklar)

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Periodontal hastalıklar, diş eti (gingivit) ve diş çevresindeki kemik ile bağ dokusunun (periodontit) bakteri kaynaklı iltihabıdır; tedavi edilmezse diş kaybına neden olur.

Impacted Tooth

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An impacted tooth — most often a wisdom tooth — has not erupted fully and remains in the jaw bone or gum. It can lead to pericoronitis, caries and cysts.

Dental Implants

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A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone that supports a crown, bridge or denture, providing the closest possible function and aesthetics to a natural tooth.

Teeth Whitening

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Teeth whitening lightens tooth color using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels. In-office (professional) bleaching uses higher concentrations with light activation for faster results; home bleaching uses custom trays with lower concentrations over 1–4 weeks. Safety depends on healthy teeth, correct concentration, isolation of gums and transient sensitivity management.

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is the dental specialty that corrects the alignment of the teeth and jaws, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits at any age, from childhood through adulthood.

Gingival Recession (Gum Recession)

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Gingival recession is the apical displacement of the gingival margin with exposure of the root surface. It may be localized or generalized and results from mechanical trauma, periodontal disease, thin biotype or anatomic factors. Recession can cause root sensitivity, caries and aesthetic concerns; management includes cause elimination and surgical root coverage when indicated.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)

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Halitosis is a chronic problem that affects a substantial part of the population. It is most often of oral origin and can interfere with social interactions.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.