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GUM DISEASE TERMINOLOGY: GINGIVITIS VS. PERIODONTITIS

GUM DISEASE TERMINOLOGY: GINGIVITIS VS. PERIODONTITIS

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. It is a bacterial infection that affects the gums. In advanced stages, it can lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease. It can destroy the tissue and bone that support the teeth. It can affect one tooth or many teeth. It can cause your teeth to become loose and fall out.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the beginning stage of periodontal or gum disease. It’s characterized by red and inflamed gums that bleed easily when you brush your teeth.

Although gingivitis can be reversed with early treatment, it can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. Periodontitis increases the risk of tooth loss in adults due to the destruction of the tissues and bones that hold the teeth in place. If you have gingivitis, we may recommend that the teeth be cleaned professionally to prevent further damage.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced form of periodontal disease that involves a bacterial infection below the gum line, causing severe damage to the soft tissues and bones that support the teeth. Over time, as the infection progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, leaving deep pockets where bacteria can thrive. As the disease gets worse, these bacteria can lead to the destruction of tissue surrounding teeth and the bone that holds them in place. If left untreated, these symptoms can result in uncomfortable chewing, pain while eating, and even tooth loss.

The good news is that there are ways to treat and prevent periodontal disease. A deep cleaning called scaling, and root planing can remove the bacteria from the roots of the teeth and help restore gum tissue health. We may also recommend special mouth rinses to reduce oral bacteria and regular checkups to monitor the health of your mouth.

How to Prevent Gum Disease?

The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. At these visits, your dentist will screen you for signs of periodontal disease. If he notices any early indications of disease, he may recommend more frequent checkups. Your dentist may also recommend additional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup that you cannot reach on your own. If you have a significant periodontal issue, such as advanced periodontitis, you may need deep cleaning. This treatment typically involves scaling your teeth to remove the harmful buildup from above and below the gum line. In some cases, you may also need antibiotics injected under the gums to fight the infection.

To learn more or for treatments, please contact Bishop Family Dental to make an appointment at 801-274-2500 or come by our office in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Location

2120 E 3900 S #102, Salt Lake City, UT 84124

Phone: (801) 274-2500

Office Hours

MON 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

TUE 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

WED 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

THU 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

FRI 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

SAT - SUN Closed

Get in Touch

Email: info@bishopfamilydental.com

Call or Text Us: (801) 274-2500

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