gingivitis

(jin-jĭ-vīt′ĭs)

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[gingiva + -itis]
Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and tendency to bleed.
SYN: SEE: ulitis

ETIOLOGY
Gingivitis may be local due to improper dental hygiene, poorly fitting dentures or appliances, or poor occlusion. It may accompany generalized stomatitis associated with mouth and upper respiratory infections. It may also occur in deficiency diseases such as scurvy, blood dyscrasias, or metallic poisoning.

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