Gingivitis Vs Periodontitis: What's The Difference?
Posted on 7/10/2023 by Joseph Kabaklian DDS
Gum diseases affect many people at different stages in their lives. The CDC claims that forty-seven percent of Americans suffer from gum diseases. Additionally, for adults 75 years and above, the rate of people who have gum diseases has risen to seventy percent in the past couple of years. Gum diseases are also more common in men than in women.
Many people who suffer from gum disease do not know that they have it. This is because the disease is usually painless at the beginning stages. Gum diseases attack both the gum and the bone that support the gum. They can also cause many other oral problems, such as tooth loss and gum recession if left untreated. Gum diseases can even be responsible for other diseases such as stroke, diabetes, and even cardiovascular diseases. Gingivitis is an example of a gum disease that affects many people. Let us take a thorough analysis of it;
Gingivitis
It is easy to treat gingivitis, which is a minor gum disease. The major symptom associated with gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. Although there are other symptoms associated with it, such as red gums, bleeding gums, and tender gums. Plaque typically causes gingivitis. The accumulation of this plaque will cause the gums to be inflamed, and if not treated, it can spread to other parts.
Periodontitis
If left untreated, gingivitis will slowly progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is where the periodontium, which is the bone and tissue that holds the gum in place, becomes inflamed. The disease progresses in stages, with the final stage being the most severe. Symptoms of periodontitis include red or swollen gums, sore gums, bad breath, and sensitive teeth.
Treatment of Periodontitis and Gingivitis
Since gingivitis happens in earlier stages, the treatment is rather easy. It involves maintaining oral hygiene by flossing and brushing daily to reduce inflammation. Your dentist will also recommend the use of mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth. Finally, your dentist will also conduct a deep cleaning to remove tartar and buildup.
The treatment process for periodontitis is like that of gingivitis, although it will contain some additional steps. You will be required to maintain good oral hygiene by flossing and brushing daily. Your dentist will also recommend a professional deep cleaning to remove tartar and plaque that is below the gum line. Your dentist may give you a prescription for antibiotics.
You can easily avoid gum diseases by maintaining good oral hygiene. You will need to brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss daily. As well as keeping up with your dental appointments and using antibacterial mouthwash to get rid of bacteria.
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