What's the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis and periodontitis are two terms which are exceedingly used interchangeably. But they are two different conditions, both of which fall under the spectrum of periodontal disease. Gum diseases are on the whole known as periodontal disease. It begins with bacterial growth and can lead to severe problems such as tooth loss if not treated in time.  

Gingivitis  
 

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. It is caused when excess plaque gathers around the teeth. Unhealthy oral hygiene, irregular brushing and flossing can eventually lead to gingivitis. If you are experiencing red, swollen gums orgums that tend to bleed easily you could be suffering from gingivitis. Gingivitis usually occurs before periodontitis or gum disease. However, not all cases of gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. 

At the stage of gingivitis, your gums may swell up and cause irritation but the teeth will continue to be firmly placed on their sockets. At this stage, no bone or tissue is damaged.
 

Gingivitis can be cured by following a few things regularly, such as –

• Brushing teeth twice daily
• Flossing at least once daily. If necessary, you can also floss twice a day.
• Using a non-alcohol-based fluoride mouthwash that doesn’t hit the gums sharply.  

Periodontitis (Gum Disease)    

Periodontal disease or periodontitis happens not just when you have inflamed gums but with infection. Gum infection can be the result of bacteria built up in the plaque, tartar and in the gum tissues. The infection can get so severe that the body’s immune system cannot heal it any longer. You can determine how severe the gum disease is by the following ways –

• Periodontal Probe – Take a little rule and measure how well the gums are attached to the teeth. If you have a pocket as long as 3mm, you are safe. But if the 3mm pocket is bleeding, it could be gingivitis. Over 4mm deep pocket which is bleeding and even has pus can be periodontitis.
• X-Ray –An x-ray will help you assess the amount of tartar accumulation. If large pieces are seen on the x-ray, it indicates that there is a high probability of gum disease.
• Bone Loss –If there is considerable bone loss, as identified on x-rays, you are definitely suffering for gum disease. Bone loss happens when the gum disease is in its advanced stage and chemicals and enzymes start destroying the bones.

How to Identify Whether You Are Suffering From Gingivitis or Periodontitis?  
 

Since gingivitis and periodontitis are often interchangeably used (even by dentists) you could mistake one for the other. However, there are certain ways to tell the difference –

• Periodontitis rarely happens to teenagers. They can however develop gingivitis. Hence age is considered a deciding factor
• If you are regularly experiencing pain, it could be a sign of either gingivitis or periodontitis. When you feel the pain while chewing, it could be a sign that gingivitis is slowly progressing to periodontitis.
• The condition of your tooth can also indicate whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis. You have gingivitis you will regularly see your gums swollen, irritated or red. However, the teeth will be firmly placed. But if your tooth is loose, you are more likely to suffer from periodontitis.  
• Bad breath is also a sign of gingivitis that is slowly progressing to periodontitis. In such cases bad breath is the result of excess bacteria in the mouth.

Gingivitis can be easily treated if diagnosed early. Periodontitis is a more severe disease and needs immediate treatment by a dentist.