Gingivitis disease treatment, cure, symptoms by Ray Sahelian, M.D.

Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is a form of periodontal disease that's caused by the long-term effects of plaque deposits. Plaque that isn't removed by brushing and other forms of dental care forms a hard deposit called tartar where teeth meet the gum line. Plaque and tartar can cause the gums to become infected, swollen, and tender.

These common signs of gum disease indicate you may have gingivitis:
Sores in the mouth.
Swollen or bleeding gums.
Red, purplish or shiny gums.
Tenderness when you touch the gums.