Many people hear the terms gum disease, gingivitis, periodontitis and periodontal disease used interchangeably, and assume that they describe the same oral health condition. All of these terms do describe gum disease. However, gingivitis describes the early stages of the condition. Periodontitis describes the more severe and advanced stages of the condition. Periodontal disease is a broad term that includes both the initial and advanced stages.
Understanding the Differences Between Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
If you notice redness or swelling in your gums, you may have gingivitis. Bleeding gums also characterize this condition, and this is particularly true when you brush your teeth. Gingivitis essentially is an irritation of the gums. Healthy gums will not normally bleed or look swollen. When gingivitis is not treated correctly and is allowed to worsen, periodontitis can develop.
Periodontitis is also known as advanced gum disease. This advanced stage of periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue, and the infection is typically bacterial. The primary symptoms of gingivitis may be present, but you may also notice that the gum tissue around the base of one or more teeth is receding.
Pockets or bubbles may also develop in the area between the teeth and the gums. Some people have loose teeth and pain when they chew. In very severe cases, tooth loss can occur. Deterioration or facial bones and tissues may also develop. In these extreme cases, the individual's appearance may be significantly affected, and the ability to eat, speak and more may be limited.
Causes of These Oral Health Conditions
Gingivitis and periodontitis can develop at any age. When the condition is related to poor oral hygiene, it most commonly develops in adults who are at least 35 years old. However, several forms of aggressive periodontitis may occur in very young children, teens, and young adults.
Excessive bacterial growth in the mouth usually causes this type of condition. Necrotizing periodontitis is the most severe form of periodontal disease. It most commonly occurs in individuals who smoke regularly, who have AIDS or HIV, who have other immune system disorders or who are not adequately nourished. This severe form of periodontitis is the type that typically results in severe bone and tissue deterioration throughout the face.
Some people may be more prone to developing gum disease or advanced forms of gum disease because of underlying or pre-existing health conditions. These include pregnancy, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, pulmonary disease and cardiovascular disease.
Treatments for Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
Because the effects of gingivitis that goes untreated can be serious, it is important to seek regular oral healthcare and to follow all recommendations from your provider. The most common gingivitis treatment involves increasing brushing efforts and switching to a more advanced or even prescription-strength toothpaste. In some cases, gingivitis may be treated with tooth scaling and root planning. These are special procedures that remove built-up plaque and tartar. Some dental offices use laser treatment for these processes. These efforts may eliminate signs of gingivitis.
For more advanced cases, various surgical procedures may be used depending on your specific symptoms. For example, surgery may be used to remove any pockets that have developed in the gums in relation to periodontitis. Surgery can also be used to graft gum tissue over areas of the tooth where it may have receded, and it can be used to regenerate bone that has deteriorated. Remember that addressing underlying conditions and avoid smoking are also essential to properly treat these conditions. For example, managing diabetes better and improving your diet can help you to reduce the severity of periodontal disease or may prevent it from worsening.
Taking excellent care of your teeth requires you to also take great care of your gums. Your gums are responsible for holding your teeth in place and protecting the roots from damage. Daily oral hygiene efforts are necessary to care for both teeth and gums properly, but you also need to visit a dentist regularly for an oral hygiene exam. During this regular exam, accumulated plaque and tartar can be removed to help you keep your gums healthy.
If your dental professional tells you that you have signs of gum disease, follow all care and treatment recommendations. Doing so may help you to prevent more serious forms of periodontal disease from developing.
About the Author
Dr. Marichia Attala is a leading Nassau County Periodontist. Learn more by visiting her website at NassauCountyPeriodontist.com
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