Is Gingivitis the Same Thing as Periodontal Disease?

July 16, 2024

Your gums are a crucial part of your oral health, supporting your teeth, protecting tooth roots, and helping you have a beautiful and healthy smile.

We’ve all heard of gum disease, but we often hear terms such as gingivitis and periodontal disease used interchangeably. While both these conditions are related to gum health, they aren’t exactly the same thing.

Gingivitis is not the same thing as periodontal disease—these terms describe different stages of gum disease, and recognizing the differences between them can help you take the best care of your oral health.

Gingivitis: Gum Inflammation and Irritation

Gingivitis is the milder and more common form of gum disease [1]. It involves inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup along the gumline.

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms when food particles mix with saliva. When plaque is not adequately removed through proper brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, leading to gingivitis.

Common signs of gingivitis include gum redness, swelling, and bleeding, especially during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with proper oral hygiene habits and regular dental cleanings [2].

However, just because gingivitis is not as serious as periodontal disease doesn't mean you can ignore the symptoms. Remember, gingivitis often progresses to periodontal disease if left untreated.

Periodontal Disease: An Active Infection Below the Gumline

Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis, is a more advanced stage of gum disease that requires more thorough treatment to prevent further damage. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other complications.

When the inflammation caused by gingivitis spreads to the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and causes an infection below the gumline, periodontal disease is diagnosed. The infection can cause pockets to form between the gums and teeth, destroying the ligaments that help anchor the teeth in place and eventually causing loose teeth and tooth loss.

Symptoms of periodontal disease may include persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose or shifting teeth, changes in the bite, and painful abscesses [3]. If left untreated, periodontal disease can have serious consequences for not only oral health but also overall well-being, as studies have linked it to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions [4].

Managing periodontal disease often involves a combination of professional treatments and improved oral hygiene practices. You may need deep cleanings, known as scaling and rootplaning, to remove tartar and plaque below the gumline, as well as antibiotic therapy. In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to repair or regenerate damaged gum and bone tissue.

Keeping Your Gums Healthy

To maintain healthy gums and prevent both gingivitis and periodontal disease, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene consistently. This includes brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.

Whether you have periodontal disease or gingivitis, it’s essential not to ignore the symptoms. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to start treating gum inflammation and disease to protect your smile and overall health!