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Gingivitis Swollen gums

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Periodontitis

Alternative Names: Pyorrhea - gum disease; Inflammation of gums - involving bone Symptoms: Swollen gums Gums that appear bright red or red-purple Gums that appear shiny Gums that bleed easily (blood on toothbrush even with gentle brushing of the teeth) Gums that are tender when touched but are painless otherwise Breath odor Loose teeth Note: Early symptoms resemble gingivitis. Signs and tests: Text Continues Below Examination of the mouth and teeth by the dentist shows soft, swollen, red-purple gingiva. Deposits of plaque and calculus may be visible at the base of the teeth, with enlarged pockets in the gums. The gums are usually painless or mildly tender, unless a tooth abscess is also present. Teeth may be loose and gums may be receded. Dental x-rays reveal the loss of supporting bone and may also show the presence of plaque deposits under the gums.

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