Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
What is the difference the terms gingivitis and periodontitis? These words are often used interchangeably but they are two different conditions in severity and damage.
Gingivitis is caused by inflammation of the gums due to the presence of plaque on the teeth and roots. Symptoms of gingivitis are red, tender gums or gum tissue that bleeds easily when you brush your teeth. In contrast to gingivitis, periodontitis is considered a very serious gum disease. An important sign of periodontitis is that gum tissue pulls away from the roots of teeth creating pockets. The pocket occurs where bone has dissolved from around the root. This allows more bacteria to invade and cause an infection. Most people are unaware of the symptoms of gingivitis. However, the signs of periodontitis are more noticeable. They include the following list:
1.Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
2. Pain with chewing hard foods
3. Poor tooth alignment or change in tooth position
4. Receding gums
5. Pockets and spaces between the teeth and gums
6. Loose or sensitive teeth
Do you think you have gingivitis or periodontitis? Here is a list to tell the difference.
•Age: Periodontitis is rare in teenagers but frequently seen in adults. Gingivitis is common to both teens and adults.
•Pain and Discomfort: Pain during chewing can be a sign that your gum disease has progressed from a gingivitis condition to periodontitis.
•Tooth loose : If you develop gingivitis, your teeth will not be loose but your gums may be tender, red, or swollen. For periodontitis, you are likely to have a tooth or teeth that are loose.
•Bad breath: If gingivitis has progressed to periodontitis, you may notice that you have constant bad breath due to the presence of a buildup of bacteria in your mouth. Also, extra food particles are rotting in the deep pockets to give off a bad odor.
Methods for Periodontitis Treatment
If your dentist diagnoses that you have periodontitis, the type of treatment will depend on the severity of damage to the gums and bone.
Some options include:
*Deep Cleaning: This is called scaling and root planing. During this process to treat periodontitis your dentist or hygienist will scrape off the tartar that has built up on teeth that is above and below the gum line. The next step is to smooth rough spots on the tooth root surfaces. This has the benefit of making it more difficult for germs to collect causing more plaque and tartar buildup.
*Gum Flap Surgery: If the gum inflammation and deep pockets between the teeth remain after a deep cleaning procedure, then your dentist may recommend flap surgery. During flap surgery, the gum is surgically pulled away from the teeth and bone. Then the tartar is removed from the root surfaces that could not be removed or detected during the deep cleaning. The gum flap is then closed with stitches, so the gum tissue is tight around the teeth. Reducing the pockets makes it easier and more efficient to brush and clean your teeth.
*Bone Grafts: In really bad cases of periodontitis bone and tissue have been destroyed. In that case you may need bone or gum grafts to replace the infected tissue. This would be done during the gum flap surgery.
Throughout our website, you will find an abundance of information about our practice, procedures we provide, and dentistry in general. Please explore and learn as much about dentistry and our services as you desire. Dr. Nugent believes our patients should have as much information as possible in order to make important, informed decisions regarding their oral health and treatment options. Our patients are our most important asset, and we strive to develop long-lasting, trusting relationships with all of our patients. Your referrals are welcome and appreciated. We look forward to seeing you!
source: Crest Pro Health http://www.crestprohealth.com
