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.

15 Tooth Problems You Need To Be Wary About

A smile is the face’s most beautiful accessory. But tooth problems can dampen this accessory and make your face look dull. That is not all – dental problems can have major health implications too! If you care for your teeth, it is best you know more about the different types of tooth problems and how to treat them. 

1. Toothache

Toothache is one of the common dental problems. If you are experiencing toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water, use a floss to remove food caught between the teeth or have a pain reliever.  

2. Stained Teeth

To get rid of stained teeth brush regularly use whitening toothpaste. If your problem is acute, consult a dentist who will use a whitening agent to whiten them.   

3. Cavities

To prevent cavities, brush your teeth twice daily, preferably with fluoride toothpaste. Cut down on snacks. Do not forget to visit the dentist regularly and floss daily.     

4. Chipped Teeth

Dentists term chipped teeth as one of the common dental accidents. Consult the dentist, who will fix a strong resin material to the tooth, replacing the chipped area. You may need a root canal if the injury is serious.  

5. Impacted Teeth

Many adults complain of impacted tooth. This problem occurs when a tooth sticks out against another tooth, bone or soft tissue. If the tooth doesn’t hurt, they should be left alone. In case of major problems, an oral surgery may be necessary.  

6. Cracked Tooth

Sensitive teeth or an injury can cause a cracked molar. If a crack is only on the surface, filling it may be enough. In cases of major cracks, root canaling may be necessary but for deeper cracks, they may be pulled out.   

7. Teeth Sensitivity

Teeth sensitivity can make you stop eating your favourite ice-cream. There can be numerous causes of teeth sensitivity – cavities, worn-our enamel or fillings, gum disease, exposed roots or fractured teeth.    

8. Hyperdontia

An adult should have 32 teeth. But in rare cases, some have extra teeth, a problem known as hyperdontia. In such cases, dentists extract the extra teeth. 

9. Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth can be easily straighten. Orthodontists often use braces, aligners and retainers to improve the dental health and relieve you of jaw pain.

10. Gap Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth can be easily corrected by visiting an orthodontist who moves the teeth closer using cosmetic solutions such as veneers or bonding. 

11. Gum Problems

Gum bleeding can be early signs of gum disease. They can also be due to plaque or sticky bacteria. To avoid gum bleeding, brush and floss daily. 

12. Grinding Teeth

Do not think that grinding your teeth is a normal habit. It can be due to stress, sleep issues, misaligned teeth etc. Grinding teeth is called bruxism and can loosen the teeth.  

13. Wisdom Teeth

Most adults complain of problems when their wisdom teeth grow. If your wisdom tooth is causing unbearable pain, consult a dentist who will take the necessary action. 

14. Less Room for Flossing

If a regular floss doesn’t fit in between your teeth, switch to a thinner floss or a waxed one. Do not give up flossing as it is a good habit for the well-being of dental health. 

15. Bonding Grills On Teeth

Many use decorative grills on teeth as a fashion statement. In such cases, you need to use good quality grills, preferably those made of gold or silver.  

Caring for your teeth helps you keep them healthy for a long time. Brushing them daily, eating the right food, flossing and consulting the dentist regularly all help in keep the teeth bright and shiny.