WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GINGIVITIS AND PERIODONTITIS?

✅ This article is professionally advised by Dr. Phan Huu Quang - Dental Specialty at CarePlus International Clinics. 

‼️ Gingivitis and periodontitis are 2 common gum diseases with similar causes and symptoms, often mistaken for one another. Specifically, both are gum diseases characterized by swollen, red and bleeding gums with bad breath. The fundamental cause is plaque buildup from bacteria that accumulates along the gumline over time, hardens, and gradually moves towards the tooth root. 

👉 Let's distinguish between these two issues with CarePlus! 

 1/ What are the differences between gingivitis and periodontitis? 

 🔷 Gingivitis is a mild gum inflammation affecting the soft tissue around the teeth, causing swollen, red gums that bleed during brushing. It rarely causes pain but can spread to other parts of the periodontium (the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth), leading to infection. 

 🔷 Periodontitis is a severe infection of the gums and bone. When gums are inflamed, they begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets (or gum pockets). Bacteria thrive in these pockets, attacking the soft tissue and bone responsible for supporting the teeth. In advanced stages, periodontitis can cause teeth to shift, become loose, or painful when chewing. 

⛔ Without proper and timely treatment, periodontitis can lead to bone loss and tooth loss. Importantly, it often progresses silently, and by the time you notice and seek treatment, it may be too late. The disease does not heal on its own and requires a dentist's diagnosis and timely treatment plan. 

2/ Treatment methods for gingivitis and periodontitis 

 ⏰ The earlier gum disease is detected, the easier it is to control and treat. The goal of treating gingivitis and periodontitis is to control bacteria, reduce swelling and inflammation, repair damaged periodontal tissue, help gums reattach to the teeth, and minimize the risk of further tooth loss. The dentist will determine the severity of the disease, your overall health, and lifestyle habits to tailor non-surgical or appropriate surgical treatment. 

 3/ Simple and effective prevention of gingivitis and periodontitis 

 You can prevent gingivitis and periodontitis by maintaining clean and regular oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup, including: 

 🔹 Brushing your teeth at least twice a day 

🔹 Using dental floss 

🔹 Regular dental check-ups and professional teeth cleaning (at least once every 6 months) 

🔹 Quitting smoking 

 👉 If you notice symptoms such as tender gums, redness, unusual breath odor, or pain while chewing, visit a CarePlus Dentist for diagnosis and timely treatment. 

Inbox or contact our free hotline at 1800 6116 to schedule your appointment now! 

Reference: WebMD, National Library of Medicine

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Associate of Singapore Medical Group