Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis: Understanding the Signs and Symptoms

Gingivitis and periodontitis are two common oral health conditions that can affect the gums. While they may have some similar symptoms, they are two distinct conditions that require different treatment approaches. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of gingivitis and periodontitis so that you can better understand these conditions and how to treat them.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums when food particles and saliva are not properly removed through regular brushing and flossing. The bacteria in plaque release toxins that can irritate the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. Some of the signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:

1. Red or swollen gums — The gums may appear red, inflamed, or swollen. They may also feel tender or painful to the touch.

2. Bleeding gums — One of the most common signs of gingivitis is bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing.

3. Bad breath — The buildup of bacteria in the mouth can cause persistent bad breath that does not go away with brushing or mouthwash.

4. Receding gums — The gums may begin to pull away from the teeth, making the teeth appear longer than normal.

5. Loose teeth — In advanced cases of gingivitis, the teeth may become loose and may even fall out.

Gingivitis is a reversible condition that can be treated with good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once a day, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria. Your dentist may also recommend a professional cleaning to remove any plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. In periodontitis, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that become infected. The bacteria in these pockets can spread to the bone and tissue that support the teeth, causing them to become damaged and eventually leading to tooth loss. Some of the signs and symptoms of periodontitis include:

1. Bleeding and swollen gums — The gums may bleed and appear swollen, red, or inflamed.

2. Bad breath — Chronic bad breath may be present due to the buildup of bacteria in the mouth.

3. Receding gums — The gums may begin to recede, creating pockets around the teeth that can become infected.

4. Tooth sensitivity — The teeth may become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

5. Loose teeth — As periodontitis progresses, the teeth may become loose and may even fall out.

Periodontitis is not reversible, but it can be managed with proper treatment. This may include scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help kill bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the gums and bone.

Preventing Gingivitis and Periodontitis

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once a day, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria. You should also schedule an appointment for regular dental checkups and cleanings to help remove any plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth.