Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common problem that, if left untreated, can seriously impact both your oral and overall health. It’s crucial to understand the different types of gum disease to effectively identify, treat, and prevent them. Two of the most common forms are gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis: The Early Stage

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, typically caused by plaque buildup along the gumline due to inadequate oral hygiene. The good news is that gingivitis is often reversible with consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits.

Signs and Symptoms of Gingivitis:

Red, swollen, or inflamed gums
Gum irritation or tenderness, especially when brushing or flossing
Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
The beginnings of gum recession (gums pulling away from the teeth)

If gingivitis isn’t addressed, it can progress to a more serious condition called periodontitis.

Periodontitis: A More Serious Infection

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that develops from untreated gingivitis. It shares some symptoms with gingivitis, like gum inflammation and bleeding, but the damage is more extensive. In periodontitis, the buildup of plaque and tartar causes the gums to separate from the teeth, forming “pockets.” These pockets trap bacteria, leading to further infection and bone loss.

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis:

Receding gums (making teeth look longer)
Red, swollen, and inflamed gums
Pain or discomfort when chewing
Sores in the mouth
Loose or sensitive teeth
Persistent bad breath
Change in the bite

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose periodontitis, a dentist will review your medical history, examine your gums, and may take X-rays to assess bone loss. Age can be a factor, as periodontitis typically takes time to develop, making it less common in teenagers (though it can occur in individuals of any age with poor oral hygiene).

Treatment options for periodontitis vary depending on the severity of the condition:

Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure where a dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to prevent further bacterial buildup.
Medications: Antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses may be prescribed to control infection.
Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): In more advanced cases, a periodontist may perform flap surgery to remove tartar from deep pockets and reduce the pocket size, making it easier to keep the area clean.
Bone and Tissue Grafts: Help regenerate lost bone and/or tissue.

For More Information:

The American Dental Association’s (ADA) Mouth Healthy website provides comprehensive information on gingivitis, periodontitis, and other oral health topics.

Maintaining good oral health is essential and regular checkups are recommended.

By Alexander Ash, DDS

Dr. Ash is the founder of Studio Dental Care. He earned his Doctorate at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, followed by two General Residencies at New York-Presbyterian / Weill-Cornell Hospital and the UCLA Sepulveda VA Hospital.