Gingivitis & Periodontitis
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease often begins with plaque buildup.
Plaque is a sticky layer containing bacteria that forms continuously on the surfaces of your teeth, including areas between the teeth and along the gum line.
When plaque isn’t effectively removed through regular brushing and cleaning between the teeth, it can irritate the gums. Over time, plaque can also harden into tartar, making it more difficult to remove with normal home care.
The ongoing buildup of bacteria can cause inflammation and lead to gum disease.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It causes inflammation of the gums but has not yet resulted in the bone loss associated with periodontitis.
The good news is that gingivitis can often be managed and reversed with appropriate professional treatment and improved oral hygiene.
Signs of Gingivitis
Common signs may include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Increased sensitivity around the gum line
- Changes in the depth of the spaces around the teeth
- Tender or irritated gums
Healthy gums are generally firm and pink. When plaque accumulates along the gum line, the surrounding tissue can become irritated, red, and swollen.
How Gingivitis Develops
A healthy tooth is surrounded by healthy gum tissue.
When plaque isn’t removed effectively, bacteria accumulate along the tooth surface and around the gum line. This irritates the gums and causes inflammation.
At this stage, the condition is known as gingivitis.
With appropriate professional cleaning and consistent home care, gingivitis can often be brought under control before it progresses to more serious periodontal disease.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the more advanced stage of gum disease.
Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis can involve the loss of the bone and other supporting structures around the teeth. As the disease progresses, the supporting tissues can become damaged and the teeth may become less stable.
Signs of Periodontitis
Possible signs include:
- Persistent gum bleeding
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Deeper spaces or pockets around the teeth
- Gum recession
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Bone loss around the teeth
Periodontitis can progress without causing significant discomfort, which is why regular dental examinations are important for detecting changes early.
How Periodontitis Develops
In many cases, periodontitis develops from untreated gingivitis.
As plaque and tartar accumulate, the inflammation can extend deeper around the teeth. In susceptible individuals, this can lead to damage to the tissues and bone responsible for supporting the teeth.
As bone support decreases, the teeth can become increasingly vulnerable to mobility and eventual tooth loss.
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
| Gingivitis | Periodontitis |
|---|---|
| Early stage of gum disease | More advanced stage of gum disease |
| Gums may become red and swollen | Gums may become inflamed and recede |
| Bleeding may occur | Bleeding and deeper periodontal pockets may occur |
| No loss of supporting bone | Supporting bone can be lost |
| Generally reversible with appropriate care | Can cause permanent damage without treatment |
Understanding the difference between these two stages is important because early intervention can help prevent gum disease from progressing.
Protecting Your Gum Health
Good daily oral hygiene is one of the most important ways to help prevent gum disease.
We recommend:
- Brush twice a day
- Clean between your teeth every day
- Attend regular dental examinations
- Have professional cleanings as recommended
- Follow any periodontal treatment recommendations
- Let your dental team know if you notice bleeding, swelling, recession, or other changes
If you already have signs of periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend additional treatment depending on the severity of the condition.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Don’t ignore bleeding or changes in your gums simply because they aren’t painful.
If you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, gum recession, loose teeth, changes in your bite, or other concerns, an examination can help determine what is happening and whether treatment is needed.
At Scarborough Village Dental Care, we’ll assess your gum health and recommend a treatment approach based on your individual needs.
Meet Our Dental Team
Our Locations
Scarborough Village Dental Care
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- Monday: 9 AM - 7 PM Tuesday: 9 AM - 7 PMWednesday: 9 AM - 7 PMThursday: 9 AM - 6 PM Friday: 9 AM - 3 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM
Cliffcrest Family Dental
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- Monday: 8 AM - 8 PM Tuesday: 8 AM - 8 PMWednesday: 8 AM - 8 PMThursday: 8 AM - 8 PM Friday: 8 AM - 4 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM