Boggy gingiva describes a condition where the gums (gingiva) are red, swollen, and have a spongy or edematous consistency. They bleed easily even with minor trauma, such as brushing or flossing. It's often a sign of acute reactive gingival hyperplasia.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Appearance: The gums appear red (inflamed) and may be significantly enlarged.
- Consistency: They feel soft, spongy, and easily compressible, much like a bog (a wet, muddy area).
- Bleeding: The gums are prone to bleeding even with gentle probing or touch.
- Association: Boggy gingiva is often associated with acute reactive gingival hyperplasia, which itself can be linked to local inflammation, gingivitis, or underlying systemic diseases.
In essence, "boggy" refers to the texture and appearance of the inflamed gums.
