Diabetes Monitor - Gingivitis

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Publication Date: 3/5/2005

This webpage is part of a series about detection and prevention of periodontal disease in diabetes

Gingivitis, a reversible condition, is characterized by inflamed and bleeding gums. Since it can be a precursor to chronic periodontitis, gingivitis requires treatment.

Photograph showing mouth infected with Gingivitis

In gingivitis, periodontal disease is confined to the gingiva with no loss of junctional epithelial attachment. Gingivitis results from bacterial plaque accumulation at the gum margin and in the sulcus between the margin and the tooth.

Photograph of mouth infected with Gingivitis illustrating plaque accumulation at the gum line.

These bacteria and their products have direct inflammatory effects and also evoke an immunological response.

Photograph of mouth infected with Gingivitis illustrating the inflammatory effects of the disease.

From the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
Detection and Prevention of Periodontal Disease in Diabetes
June 1994
http://www.nohic.nidcr.nih.gov/pubs/perdiab/ging/index.html

Also see

other webpages about teeth and periodontal disorders