Mouth: Gingivitis

Question 1

Patient presents with distinct breath changes, mouth sores, and purple, tender, shiny gums. Dx?

Answer 1

Gingivitis

Can turn into peridontal dx.

Question 2

What is the etiology of gingivitis?

Answer 2

inflammation of gingiva; can destroy tissues that support the teeth, gums, periodontal ligaments, and tissues that support the teeth and tooth sockets (the alveolar bone)

Question 3

What is the pathophysiology for gingivitis?

Answer 3

long term effects of plaque deposits on the teeth (plaque=mixture of bacteria, mucus, food debris)—can evolve into tartar or CALCULUS

Question 4

What are some risk factors for gingivitis?

Answer 4

infection or systemic diseases, poor dental hygiene, pregnancy, hormones (common in 2nd-8th month), diabetes, misaligned teeth due to misgrowth, fillings, etc.

Question 5

What does the lab workup look like for gingivitis?

Answer 5

ook for soft, swollen reddish purple gum (painless or just tender), plaque and tartar at base of teeth

PROBE TEST! to test depth around the tooth in the root area

No more than 3-4 mm of probe depth around the tooth. Xrays can be done to evaluate the supporting structures of the tooth