If you’ve ever been told you have gingivitis or periodontitis, you may wonder what sets these two conditions apart. At Kremer Dental, we aim to help patients understand their oral health, so we’re here to break down the most pressing question on your mind: What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis? Additionally, we will discuss how you can identify each condition and how the two are related. So, let’s get started!
What Is the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?
Gingivitis and periodontitis are both forms of gum disease, but they differ in severity and the effects they can have on your oral health. Gingivitis is an early-stage gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup around the gumline. Common symptoms include red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings. This means your gums can return to full health without lasting damage, if you get it treated in time.
Periodontitis, on the other hand, is a more severe form of gum disease that can develop if gingivitis is left untreated. With periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that can trap bacteria and lead to infection. Over time, periodontitis can cause irreversible damage, including bone loss and loose teeth. It requires more intensive treatment, often involving scaling and root planing, or even surgical intervention in advanced cases.
How Can You Tell the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease?
Gingivitis and periodontitis may share some symptoms, but there are a few key ways to differentiate them. With gingivitis, symptoms are generally limited to the gums, including redness, swelling, and light bleeding. Gingivitis does not cause pain in most cases, making it easy to overlook until a dentist points it out.
Periodontitis, however, shows more severe symptoms. In addition to red, swollen, and bleeding gums, patients with periodontitis may notice gum recession, bad breath, and sometimes pain when chewing. If the disease progresses, teeth can become loose due to the loss of supporting bone structure, and in some cases, abscesses may develop. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis leads to permanent changes, requiring ongoing care to manage symptoms and prevent further damage.
How Long Does It Take For Gingivitis to Turn Into Periodontitis?
Gingivitis does not immediately progress into periodontitis. However, without proper treatment, gingivitis can (and will) advance over time. For some, it may take just a few months for gingivitis to develop into early periodontitis, while for others, it could take years. Factors like smoking, poor oral hygiene, stress, and genetic predisposition can accelerate the progression. Regular dental checkups and proper brushing and flossing habits are the best ways to keep gingivitis from advancing to periodontitis.
Get Your Teeth and Gums Checked at Kremer Dental
Are you experiencing any signs of gum disease? Do you want to get treatment for gingivitis before it has the chance to worsen? Finally, are you looking for a quality dentist in or near Chico, California? If so, Kremer Dental is the answer. Reach out to us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!
