Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis: Understanding Gum Disease Differences

Gingivitis and periodontitis are both gum diseases, but they are different in severity. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, and it is reversible. Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease, and it is not reversible.

Gingivitis

* Inflammation of the gums

* Gums may be red, swollen, and bleeding

* Bleeding may occur when brushing or flossing

* Bad breath

* Receding gums

Periodontitis

* Advanced stage of gum disease

* Gums may be red, swollen, and bleeding

* Bleeding may occur when brushing or flossing

* Bad breath

* Receding gums

* Loose teeth

* Pus between teeth and gums

* Painful chewing

* Bone loss

Treatment

* Gingivitis: Gingivitis can be treated with good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing daily. A dentist may also recommend a professional cleaning.

* Periodontitis: Periodontitis requires more aggressive treatment, such as scaling and root planing. Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, and root planing is the smoothing of the tooth roots. A dentist may also recommend antibiotics or surgery.