Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more serious gum diseases like periodontitis. Periodontitis is the more advanced form of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is not treated.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. Plaque builds up over time if not removed by daily brushing and flossing. As plaque accumulates, it triggers an inflammatory response in the gums, causing them to become swollen, red, and bleed easily.
The early signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Gums that are tender when touched
- Bad breath
If gingivitis is detected early and proper oral hygiene is resumed, such as regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, the inflammation can be reversed and the gums will heal and return to a healthy state.
How Gingivitis Progresses to Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated and poor oral hygiene habits continue, plaque will spread down below the gum line and the gums will detach from the teeth, creating pockets that become infected. This more severe form of gum disease is known as periodontitis.
As periodontitis worsens, the pockets between the gums and teeth grow deeper as more gum tissue and bone that supports the teeth are destroyed. This can cause teeth to loosen or even fall out.
The signs and symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Gums that are bright red or purplish in color
- Gums that feel tender when touched
- Gums that bleed easily without any pressure
- Pus oozing from between the teeth and gums
- Bad breath that persists despite brushing
- Loose or separating teeth
- A change in the way teeth fit together when biting
Treatment for Periodontitis
Periodontitis requires professional treatment. Treatment usually involves deep cleaning below the gum line, called scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets. Antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses may be used to fight infection. In more advanced cases, gum surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths.
It’s crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene after treatment with daily brushing and flossing and regular professional cleanings. Untreated periodontitis can lead to receding gums, tooth loss, and even increased risk of conditions like heart disease.
Prevention of Gum Disease Progression
The progression from gingivitis to the more serious periodontitis can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene to keep plaque in check. Prevention tips include:
- Brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing once daily
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash
- Seeing a dentist for regular cleanings and checkups
- Not smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco
Practicing diligent oral hygiene and getting professional care is key to treating gingivitis in its early stages and preventing it from advancing to periodontitis and irreversible damage.
Conclusion
In summary, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis causes damage to gum tissue and bone, creating pockets around teeth that become infected. Periodontitis is characterized by symptoms like receding gums, loose teeth, and persistent bad breath. Proper oral hygiene and professional treatment are needed to manage periodontitis. Regular dental care and maintaining good brushing and flossing habits can prevent gingivitis from worsening over time.