ADA Accessibility Information
Accessibility

A
A

A

Gingivitis Vs Periodontitis


Posted on 8/7/2023 by Amir Hosseini, DDS
Gingivitis Vs PeriodontitisGingivitis and periodontitis share a few similarities, including the fact that both are types of gum disease. There are also several differences between the two that highlight the importance of seeking preventive and treatment measures.

What is Gingivitis?


Gingivitis is a mild type of gum disease characterized by inflammation of the gums. It is caused by a build-up of bacteria and plaque along the gum line. This irritates the gums, causing them to be red and swollen.

What is Periodontitis?


Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis happens when plaque and tartar dig below the gum line, causing the gums to recede and causing pockets. As the body tries to fight the bacteria, it weakens the structures surrounding the teeth, causing them to loosen.

Difference in Symptoms Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis


Gingivitis is a milder version of gum disease, and the main symptoms are bad breath, bleeding, and swollen gums. Periodontitis contains the symptoms of gingivitis and additional symptoms, like deep gum pockets, receded gums, loose teeth, and low bone density.

Difference in Diagnosis Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis


Gingivitis and periodontitis can have similar diagnosis examinations. Your dentist or periodontist will conduct an oral examination to detect the presence and extent of inflammation, redness, and bleeding. Where periodontitis is being diagnosed, your periodontist might perform an X-Ray to determine the extent of bone damage.

Difference in Treatment Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis


Treatment of gingivitis is non-surgical. The patient is usually required to improve their dental care habits by brushing and flossing twice daily. Adding a microbial mouthwash is an added requirement. Using a soft-bristled brush helps avoid bruising the gums, subsequently avoiding bleeding. Professional cleaning using tooth scaling and root planing may be necessary to remove plaque build-up. Periodontal treatment is a little more extensive, including surgical procedures like soft tissue grafts and bone grafts where the damage has eroded the gums and the alveolar bridge.

San Antonio:
Stone Oak

1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120
San Antonio, TX 78258-4235

(210) 614-4700

San Antonio:
Alamo Ranch

11019 Culebra Rd
Ste 162
San Antonio, TX 78253

(210) 614-4700

Pleasanton
800 N. Bryant St
Pleasanton, TX 78064

(210) 614-4700


Hours
Monday-Friday: 7:30AM – 3:30PM


Copyright © 2016-2024 Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists and WEO Media (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap
Dental Blog - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists
We post dental blogs to pique your interest and educate our San Antonio community about topics related to dentistry, dental implants, and oral health.
Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258 + (210) 614-4700 + aestheticperiodontist.com + 12/7/2024 + Page Terms:Dental Implants San Antonio TX +