Gum disease is a common but serious oral health issue affecting millions. It often starts subtly, with mild symptoms like red or swollen gums, but can progress into severe infections that threaten the health of your teeth and overall well-being. The two primary stages of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis, but many people don’t fully understand their differences.
Suppose you’ve noticed signs of gum disease or want to prevent it from developing. In that case, this guide will help you understand the key differences between gingivitis and periodontitis, how they progress, and what you can do to keep your gums healthy.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest and mildest form of gum disease. It occurs when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on the teeth and along the gumline. If not removed through proper brushing and flossing, plaque causes inflammation, leading to symptoms like:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Mild gum tenderness
The good news is that gingivitis is reversible. Proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings can eliminate plaque buildup and restore your gums to full health.
What Causes Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene, but other factors can contribute to its development:
- Inconsistent Brushing and Flossing: Not cleaning your teeth properly allows plaque to build up.
- Smoking or Tobacco Use: Tobacco weakens the immune system, making it harder for your gums to fight infection.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and even puberty can increase gum sensitivity.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes and other immune-compromising conditions make you more prone to gum disease.
- Certain Medications: Some prescription drugs can reduce saliva flow, increasing plaque buildup.
What is Periodontitis?
If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that causes permanent damage. Plaque spreads below the gumline with periodontitis, triggering a chronic inflammatory response. Over time, this leads to:
- Receding gums
- Deep pockets forming between the teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Tooth loss in severe cases
Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis is not reversible, but it can be managed with professional periodontal treatment and improved oral care.
How Does Periodontitis Progress?
Periodontitis develops in stages:
- Early Periodontitis: Gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming small pockets where bacteria thrive.
- Moderate Periodontitis: The infection spreads deeper, breaking down connective tissue and leading to noticeable gum recession.
- Advanced Periodontitis: Severe bone loss occurs, teeth become loose, and in some cases, extraction may be necessary.
Key Differences Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis
| Gingivitis | Periodontitis | |
| Reversibility | Reversible with good oral care | Not reversible but manageable |
| Symptoms | Red, swollen gums, bleeding | Receding gums, deep pockets, bone loss |
| Pain Level | Mild discomfort | Can be painful, especially in severe cases |
| Treatment | Improved hygiene, professional cleanings | Deep cleanings, scaling, root planing, surgery in advanced casesFee |
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Whether you want to prevent gingivitis or stop periodontitis from worsening, these steps will help keep your gums healthy:
1. Brush and Floss Daily
Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day removes plaque and prevents buildup along the gumline.
2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine checkups allow your dentist to detect early signs of gum disease and provide professional cleanings to remove hardened plaque (tartar).
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your gums to heal from infections.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eating nutrient-rich foods supports gum health. Avoid excessive sugar and acidic foods that contribute to plaque buildup.
5. Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash
Mouthwashes containing antibacterial ingredients can help reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth.
Treatment Options for Periodontitis
If you have periodontitis, professional treatment is essential. Common options include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
- Laser Therapy: Some dentists use laser treatment to target infected gum tissue and promote healing.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Medicated gels or oral antibiotics can help reduce bacterial infection.
- Gum Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures may be needed to restore gum tissue and bone.
Get Expert Periodontal Treatment in Waterloo
If you’re experiencing signs of gum disease, early treatment is key to preventing permanent damage. At Trillium Dental Centre, Our Waterloo dentist offer comprehensive periodontal treatment at Trillium Dental Centre, to help you maintain healthy gums and a strong smile.
Call us at 519-746-4000 to schedule an appointment and protect your oral health today!