Gingivitis and Periodontitis EXPLAINED
Gingivitis and periodontitis are both gum diseases, but they differ in terms of severity and the extent of damage they cause to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Read more to find out what they are and what we can do to help!
Okay, here are some definitions:
Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the milder form of gum disease. It is characterized by inflammation of the gums, usually caused by bacterial plaque build-up along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Poor oral hygiene, inadequate brushing and flossing, hormonal changes, certain medications, and systemic diseases can contribute to the development of gingivitis. Along with plaque you can have a build up of tartar which we term calculus. This generally accumulates above the time (whereas you will see periodontitis tartar accumulation is above and BELOW the gums). Common signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and tender gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing, and bad breath. However, gingivitis does not involve any irreversible damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, such as the bone and connective tissues.
Periodontitis: Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease (We start with gingivitis and then without intervention can develop into periodontitis) In periodontitis, the infection extends beyond the gumline and affects the underlying bone and connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. As the disease progresses, the gums recede from the teeth, creating pockets between the gums and teeth that become infected. So at your dental exam you will or probably have heard your dentist (or hygienist) “measuring your gums”. We can be heard saying “3,2,3,5,4,6” (or a variety of other numbers) while our assistant records the numbers in your chart . These numbers combined with you X-rays tell us about the health of your teeth below the gums.
Okay so you were told you have periodontitis. WHY. Read below.
Healthy “pockets” (the numbers we can be heard saying discussed above) are generally 1’s,2’s, and 3’s. 4’s tell us there are signs of inflammation underneath the gums - gingivitis. Numbers above 4 like 5,6,7 etc tell us there is a disease process occurring that is destroying your bone damaging the support your teeth need to be healthy. This is because bacterial toxins and the body's own immune response cause the destruction of the supporting structures due to the build up of bacteria under the gums. This leads to bone loss and eventual tooth loss if left untreated. Signs and symptoms of periodontitis include all the signs of gingivitis, along with additional symptoms such as gum recession, deep pockets between the teeth and gums, loose teeth, changes in bite alignment, and pus between the teeth and gums
Think of it like this - Gingivitis is a milder form of gum disease characterized by gum inflammation, while periodontitis is a more advanced stage where the infection progresses to affect the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to potential tooth loss. It's important to treat gingivitis promptly to prevent it from progressing to periodontitis. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and professional cleanings are essential for preventing and managing both conditions. If you suspect you have gum disease, reach out for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. We want you to be healthy and guide you along your journey - we will meet you where you are and help you get to where you need to be.
So now you know what gingivitis is and periodontitis…but now you want to know the difference in treating both. Click here.
As always we are accepting new patients at our NW Portland office.
