Final answer:
Gingival edema is generally caused by gingivitis, the inflammation of gums due to plaque accumulation and bacterial infection, possibly progressing to periodontitis with severe conditions like trench mouth requiring antibiotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gingival edema is typically caused by inflammation of the gums, a condition known as gingivitis. When plaque, which harbors bacteria like Streptococcus and Actinomyces, accumulates on the teeth, it can lead to an inflammatory response in the gum tissue. This response may manifest as swollen, red, and often tender gums, a condition reflecting edema within the gingival tissues. In severe cases, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation results in erosion of the gums and other periodontal structures, potentially leading to tooth loss. The presence of certain bacteria such as Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium species, and Treponema vicentii, can exacerbate the condition, causing acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, also known as trench mouth, characterized by severe gum erosion, ulcers, and halitosis. Treatment typically involves improved dental hygiene, professional dental cleaning, and in severe cases, antibiotics.