Periodontal disease vs gingivitis

Having bleeding or inflamed gums while brushing is a tell-tale sign that you have gum disease.

The good news is that gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, is largely preventable with good oral hygiene. Luckily, gingivitis is easily reversible with professional care and improved oral hygiene. But, if left unchecked, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontal disease.

“When bacteria in your mouth grows in the form of biofilm it will sit in a pocket around the tooth. If that plaque is allowed to sit there and is not removed with your brushing and flossing it can start absorbing the calcium from the saliva and turns into tartar,” says periodontist Teresa Debevc at the School of Dentistry. “The plaque triggers an immune response and your gums become inflamed.”

“That inflammation in the gums, if left untreated, can develop into periodontal disease leading to bone loss and possibly tooth loss,” says Debevc. “We try to treat the disease as early as we can, but sometimes, because the process is painless, it’s not noticed until it has progressed. Fortunately in most cases the disease can be treated and managed. However, bone loss can be permanent.”

Debevc says that not all people have the same susceptibility to periodontal disease. Factors in gingivitis and periodontitis include genetics, systemic conditions, diabetes and smoking. That’s why dental treatment is not one size fits all. Some of us can get by with preventative appointments on a yearly basis. Others will need more frequent care.

“It’s important to go to the dentist regularly to be checked for both cavities and gum disease,” she stresses. “If our hands bled when we washed them, we would probably have that checked out at the doctor. Similarly, if your gums bleed when you brush you should seek a consultation with your dentist.”