Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. Under this condition, the gums become red and swollen and bleed easily. An extremely common condition, gingivitis can develop any time after a person’s teeth come in, and it is almost always the result of inadequate brushing and flossing, which allows plaque to remain along the gumline of the teeth. Plaque, which is a soft, sticky film made up primarily of bacteria, accumulates especially in faulty fillings and around the teeth next to poorly cleaned partial dentures, bridges, and orthodontic appliances. When plaque stays on the teeth for more than 72 hours, it hardens into tartar, which can’t be completely removed by brushing and flossing. Although plaque is the main cause of gingivitis, other factors can make the inflammation worse, especially pregnancy, puberty, and birth control drugs.