The Differences Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Gingivitis and periodontitis are both forms of gum disease. However, one is more advanced than the other. Your dentist in Mountain View, CA, can help you learn about the differences between the two. And if you have the more mild form of gum disease, they can show you how to prevent it from worsening.

Which Is Worse: Gingivitis or Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is the more severe form of gum disease. This condition can cause a lot of damage to your teeth and gums, and it can make costly dental work necessary. Some of the symptoms of periodontitis include:

• Chronic bad breath
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Sore or bleeding gums
• Pain when chewing
• Loose teeth
• Open Bite

Periodontitis can usually be avoided through regular visits to your dentist for cleaning. It’s caused by a buildup of bacteria around the teeth and beneath the gums. Your dentist can regularly remove this buildup of plaque before it infects gum tissue, causing pain and discomfort.

What Are the Symptoms of Gingivitis?

Gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, may have the following symptoms:

• Gums that look puffy, swollen, or red
• Gums that feel tender to the touch
• Gums that recede from the teeth
• Bad breath
• Gums that bleed easily

If your dentist notices signs of gingivitis, they can help stop it in its tracks by scaling and root planing your teeth and gums. This will remove all signs of plaque, bacteria, and tartar. They’ll then help you devise an at-home oral hygiene routine to help keep your teeth and gums healthy and bright.

Help for Gum Disease in Mountain View, CA

If you’re struggling with the signs of early or advanced gum disease in Mountain View, CA, Dr. Joseph M. Cassara, DDS, has solutions. At Cassara Dental, we help patients of all ages achieve a brighter, whiter, more satisfying smile. We’d like to help your family, too.

Call today to schedule an initial consultation. Our experienced and friendly professionals are always ready to discuss your oral health goals and to answer any questions you may have regarding gum disease and how to establish an effective oral hygiene routine.