What causes gingivitis?
Gingivitis is your body’s inflammatory response to plaque and tartar on your teeth. When plaque and tartar remain on your teeth for too long, your gums become irritated, red and swollen. You may face a higher risk of developing gingivitis if you: Are pregnant or experience other hormonal changes tied to oral health. Don’t take good care of your teeth or have crooked teeth that are hard to clean. Have diabetes. Have a family history of gum disease. Smoke or chew tobacco. Also, some prescriptions and over-the-counter medications can reduce the flow of saliva (spit), resulting in dry mouth (xerostomia). Saliva helps keep your mouth clean, so this change may contribute to gingivitis. Examples of such medications include: Drugs to treat epilepsy. Some cancer therapies. Calcium channel blockers for blood pressure. Oral contraceptives.