Which of the following is a symptom of gingivitis?

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused primarily by plaque accumulation on the teeth. One of the hallmark symptoms of gingivitis is the appearance of the gums, which typically become red, soft, and shiny. This change in color and texture indicates that the gums are inflamed, signaling an underlying inflammatory process due to irritation from plaque.

The presence of red, soft, and shiny gums is significant because it reflects the body’s response to this irritation. Healthy gums are usually firm, pale pink, and do not bleed easily. In contrast, when gingivitis develops, the blood vessels in the gums become more prominent and the tissue can swell, leading to the symptoms observed. Maintaining good oral hygiene can prevent gingivitis from progressing to more severe periodontal diseases.