During an oral health assessment, a patient is diagnosed with chronic gingivitis. Which finding is most likely to be present?

In the context of chronic gingivitis, gingival hyperplasia is indeed a likely finding. Chronic gingivitis is characterized by the inflammation of the gum tissue that leads to swelling and tenderness, and in some cases, it can cause the gums to become enlarged or overgrown. This condition results from prolonged inflammation, often due to factors like plaque accumulation or hormonal changes, which can lead to the gums appearing puffy, red, and swollen.

Gingival hyperplasia can be particularly notable when examining the patient as it presents visibly, allowing dental professionals to assess the severity of the gingivitis. This swelling and excess tissue can also make the gums more susceptible to infection and further complications, including the progression to periodontitis if left untreated.

While other options might describe various dental conditions, they are less directly associated with chronic gingivitis. For instance, furcation lesions and true pockets are more typically related to periodontitis, which is a more advanced stage of gum disease. Subgingival calculus refers to mineralized deposits below the gum line and, while it may contribute to chronic gingivitis, its presence is not as defining as gingival hyperplasia in the earlier stages of the disease. Thus, gingival hyperplasia stands out as a characteristic finding in an