Difference Between Periodontal and Gingival Diseases
Posted on 6/20/2022 by Amir Hosseini, DDS
Periodontal disease includes both Gingivitis and periodontitis. On the other hand, Gingivitis is recoverable, whereas periodontitis is not. This is because periodontitis causes irreversible bone loss. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and if left undiagnosed, Gingivitis can proceed to periodontitis. Gum disease has progressed to this stage. It can cause gum damage and tooth loss over time.
What is Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a term that refers to gum infection caused by plaque buildup on the teeth, which leads to gum inflammation. Gingivitis symptoms include red, sore gums, bleeding gums when flossing or brushing your teeth, and gums that hemorrhage at random. Gingivitis is often painless. The goal of therapy is to reduce inflammation as much as possible. Oral hygiene is part of the treatment.
This includes brushing and flossing regularly and utilizing the proper procedures. A dentist can teach you how to brush and floss your teeth effectively. Professional dental cleaning is also included. A dentist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum region. Mouthwashes with antiseptic properties are also recommended. Chlorhexidine, used in this prescription mouthwash, kills microorganisms in your mouth.
What is Periodontitis
Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis or severe gum disease if left untreated. Periodontitis is an irritation of the periodontium, the gum muscle and tissue that anchors your teeth. The disorder can cause teeth to loosen as it advances. Symptoms are similar to those of Gingivitis with the addition of receding gums, loose teeth and changes in bone position, and chronic pain while chewing.
Treatment of this condition involves minimizing the damage and the chances of tooth and bone loss. Therapy procedures include thorough dental cleanings, root scaling and planing and laser gum surgery. Invasive procedures like flap surgery and bone grafting are also treatment options for periodontitis.
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Periodontal disease includes both Gingivitis and periodontitis. On the other hand, Gingivitis is recoverable, whereas periodontitis is not. This is because periodontitis causes irreversible bone loss. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and if left undiagnosed, Gingivitis can proceed to periodontitis. Gum disease has progressed to this stage. It can cause gum damage and tooth loss over time.