New Kitten is allergic to the plaque on his teeth!

[Dracko]

Took my kitten to the vet to get his first shots (manditory here) and a check up prior to be getting fixed. I mentioned that his breath is nasty (much worse than normal cat breath). After taking a look she told me she thinks he has a condition (can't recall the technical term) that is essentially caused by an allergic reaction to the plaque that naturally forms on their teeth. He had no tartar build up or anything.

So, guess I have to brush his teeth each day to help reduce the plaque. His top gums are all red and swollen, though he eats fine and doesn't seem to be in discomfort.

Anyone ever heard of this? She said if it progressed they would prescribe steroids for the inflammation. Well, I wouldn't put my cat on them (I use the holistic route whenever possible) cuz of the side-effects. Hopefully this doesn't get out of hand. The kitten, Smitty, is only 6 months old.