What Causes It?
Plaque accumulation between the teeth and under the gingiva, caused by germs, is the primary factor in the development of gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gingiva. The body's immune system responds to infection, injury, or shields itself from irritation with an inflammatory response. The gingiva is no exception. The characteristics of inflammation are swelling, redness, heat and pain surrounding the affected area. Chronic inflammation can contribute to gingival enlargement, which may be exaggerated in individuals with genetic or drug-related systemic factors (e.g. cyclosporine, anticonvulsants and calcium channel blocking drugs). Other contributing factors include stress, pregnancy, puberty, inadequate nutrition, HIV infection, smoking, ageing, and hormonal fluctuations.