(HealthDay News) -- Gingivitis is a mild type of gum disease. Left untreated, however, it can progress to a more serious form called periodontitis.

The American Academy of Periodontology says these are risk factors for developing gingivitis:

• Practicing poor oral hygiene.
• Being malnourished.
• Being under stress.
• Being diabetic or having a systemic infection.
• Being a smoker, abusing drugs or taking certain medications.
• Undergoing hormonal changes, including during puberty or pregnancy.