Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis – Understanding the Key Differences

Gum disease, which is also called Periodontal disease, has affected a plethora of people in New Jersey, from children to adults. Gum disease is divided into two different stages: Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Both of them involve the gums and tissues surrounding those gums but differ on the basis of their characteristics and implications for dental health. They often need intervention from a Bloomfield dentist for a successful treatment before it does more damage. Now, let us take a closer look at both stages.

Gingivitis: The early stage

The initial stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which shows symptoms like inflamed gums. When you fail to maintain oral hygiene, plaque builds up around the gum line, which generally causes gingivitis.

Characteristics of Gingivitis

• Red and swollen gums

If you see the gums turning red, tender, and swollen, it indicates gum disease.

• Bleeding gums

The gums start bleeding pretty quickly, especially during flossing and brushing.

• Bad breath

Due to the presence of bacteria in the mouth, the person will have bad breath constantly.

• Gum sensitivity

Gums will become sensitive to pressure or touch.

Treatment and Reversibility

What is fortunate is that gingivitis is reversible if you exercise a proper oral care routine and get professional dental care on time. Gingivitis treatment includes getting a thorough dental cleaning to eliminate plaque and tartar buildup in the mouth, regularly adequately brushing and flossing teeth, and using an antibacterial mouthwash alongside. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can turn into periodontitis.

Periodontitis: The advanced stage

When the gum disease becomes more advanced, it is called periodontitis, which affects the structure supporting the teeth. Periodontitis develops when gingivitis remains untreated, which enables bacteria to get deeper into the gums and do more damage.

Characteristics of Periodontitis

• Receding gums

The gums will pull away, allowing more bacteria to gather in the pockets created.

• Tooth mobility

With the deterioration of tissues and supporting bone, teeth can shift position and become loose.

• Gum disease

Gums will recede more and expose more of the roots of the teeth.

• Pus formation

Pus can form between the gums and teeth.

Treatment and Management

Treatment aims to stop the disease from progressing further and restore dental health. It needs more rigorous cleaning procedures like root planing and scaling and, in some severe cases, surgical interventions. Regular dental visits and proper oral care practices become a necessity at this stage to manage periodontitis.

Significance of dental intervention

A lot of people ignore gum disease initially, but it can turn catastrophic for one’s oral health. An intervention from a dentist is needed to prevent further damage that can even result in tooth loss. Delaying treatment will only make it worse.