What Exactly Is Gum Disease? What You Need To Know
Posted on: 7 December 2021
If your dentist has said you have gum disease, you need to fully understand that term. Just because you have gum disease does not necessarily mean you have the worst type. When gum disease is not addressed properly, it progresses to a more detrimental condition. The following is some information about the differences in gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis:
What Is Gum Disease?
In many instances, the terms gum disease and gingivitis are used interchangeably. Gum disease is a term that encompasses all forms of periodontal disease. This term includes both gingivitis and periodontal disease. The primary difference in the terminology for gum disease is the level at which your gum disease has progressed. You can suffer from different levels of gum disease, either mild or progressive.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a mild to moderate form of gum disease. Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease. Gingivitis is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. If you do not remove the plaque by brushing and flossing your teeth, your gums will become inflamed from the bacteria in the plaque. This condition can often be reversed with proper treatment. Gingivitis typically presents with red, inflamed gums that tend to bleed often when you brush or floss. To reverse gum disease, your dentist will direct you to brush and floss several times a day. You may also need to rinse your mouth with a special mouth rinse that helps to remove bacteria from your mouth. During your checkup, the dentist will also make sure to fully remove any plaque or tartar buildup that is perpetuating gingivitis.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a progressive form of gum disease. Those suffering from periodontitis have a long-term dental condition that needs to be dealt with by a periodontist. Periodontitis presents with serious symptoms including receding gums, bone damage, loss of bone density, and the loss of teeth in more serious cases. The disease can also result in pain in the mouth, difficulty when biting or chewing food, and even issues with your speech. Although some of the symptoms of periodontitis can be treated with professional care, the condition is not generally reversible. This means you will have to deal with the symptoms for the rest of your life.
As soon as you recognize the symptoms of gum disease in any form, you need to see a dentist right away. Depending on your symptoms, you may be referred to a periodontist to have your gum disease treated. If you have bone loss, you might need a bone graft to repair the damage. If you suspect you need periodontal disease treatment, make an appointment with a local dentist.
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