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Gingivitis: meaning, definitions and examples

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gingivitis

 

[ ˌdʒɪn.dʒɪˈvaɪ.tɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

dental condition

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness, and swelling of the gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth. It's often a result of poor oral hygiene habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on teeth, leading to inflammation. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to more serious gum disease, potentially resulting in tooth loss.

Synonyms

gingival disease, gum disease

Examples of usage

  • Regular brushing can prevent gingivitis.
  • Dentists often find gingivitis during check-ups.
  • Symptoms of gingivitis include swollen gums.

Etymology

The term 'gingivitis' comes from Latin origins, where 'gingiva' means 'gum' and the suffix '-itis' from Greek denotes 'inflammation'. The usage of the word can be traced back to the early medical terminology of the 19th century, when the understanding of oral health started to develop. Before the terminology existed, conditions of the gums were often described in a more general sense. Medical professionals began to categorize oral diseases more systematically as dental research advanced, leading to a clearer understanding of gingivitis as a specific condition. As dental care evolved and awareness of oral hygiene increased through the 20th century, the term gained prominence, becoming widely recognized among both healthcare professionals and the public. Today, gingivitis is acknowledged as the earliest stage of periodontal disease and is extensively discussed in dental literature, emphasizing its preventable nature.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,427, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.