Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis: What's the Difference?
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Wondering about the difference between gingivitis vs periodontitis? While both are forms of gum disease, they vary in severity. Gingivitis is the milder, reversible stage, while periodontitis is more advanced and can lead to long-term damage.
Understanding these differences is the first step to achieving healthier gums and a brighter smile. If you're experiencing red gums, tooth sensitivity, or other signs of gum disease, book an appointment with Premier Periodontics in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, Redmond, or Seattle, WA. We can answer questions such as, "What does a periodontist do for gum disease?" and get you started with treatment.
Gingivitis explained
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Left unaddressed, this plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes inflammation. Symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Swollen or red gums
- Bleeding gums (especially during brushing or flossing)
- Persistent bad breath
The good news? This form of periodontal disease can be reversed with proper oral health habits, such as brushing twice daily, flossing, and attending regular professional cleanings.
Periodontitis overview
When gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. It involves the destruction of gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontal pockets, or deep spaces between the teeth and gums, begin to form and can trap bacteria, worsening the condition.
Symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Gum recession (teeth appear longer)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Periodontitis requires professional intervention, such as scaling and root planing or even surgical treatments, to help prevent tooth loss and other complications.
What does a periodontist do?
Are you wondering what can a periodontist do for gingivitis and periodontitis? Periodontists are specialists who diagnose and treat different forms of gum disease. At Premier Periodontics in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, Redmond, and Seattle, our team provides comprehensive solutions for both.
For gingivitis:
- Professional cleaning: A thorough dental cleaning removes harmful plaque and tartar.
- Oral hygiene guidance: This includes personalized tips and suggestions to improve your at-home oral care routine.
For periodontitis:
- Scaling and root planing: A deep-cleaning procedure can remove plaque and tartar, and smooth the roots to encourage gum reattachment.
- Antibiotic therapy: Locally applied antibiotics may be used to target bacteria in deep pockets.
- Perioscopy: Advanced periodontal technology gives us a better view beneath the gumline for precise and effective treatment.
- Laser therapy or surgery: We may use laser gum surgery or other surgical techniques to repair damage and restore oral health.
Why treat gum disease early?
Patients should treat gum disease as soon as possible to have a healthy, confident smile and avoid more invasive treatments down the line. It's especially important for stopping gingivitis from progressing to periodontitis. It can save you from damage like gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss.
Get gum care in Bellevue, WA
Whether you're battling red gums, tooth sensitivity, or advanced gum disease, our team at Premier Periodontics is here to help. With periodontists across Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, Redmond, and Seattle, WA, we offer cutting-edge treatments like scaling and root planing, advanced laser therapy, and more.
Take the first step toward healthier gums today. Book an appointment with Premier Periodontics and experience the difference specialized care can make.