Periodontal Disease: Understanding The Difference Between Gingivitis And Periodontitis
Periodontal disease refers to a group of diseases that affects the alveolar bone, cementum, gingiva, and periodontal ligament, or simply, the periodontal tissues. It is taken from the two Greek words “peri” (around) and “odontos” (the tooth/teeth). Basically, periodontal disease means infections that affect the different structures surrounding the teeth. Ironically, we would be very concerned if we were washing our hands and they suddenly began bleeding. Yet most individuals think that it is normal for our gums to bleed when brushing our teeth.
The two most common forms of periodontal disease include gingivitis and periodontitis which are defined as follows:
- Gingivitis refers to an inflammation of the gum tissues
- Periodontitis refers to tissue inflammation that affects the areas surrounding the teeth which leads to gum shrinkage and loose teeth
In most of the cases that are treated at Community Dental Group, periodontitis is typically preceded by gingivitis. However, gingivitis does not always lead to periodontitis.
Progression Of The Diseases
During the earliest stages of gingivitis, plaque bacteria accumulate, eventually causing inflammation of the gums and bleeding when you are brushing your teeth. Despite the bleeding and irritation, the teeth remain planted in their sockets and there is no evidence of any loosening. During this stage of the progression, there is no irreversible damage to the jaw bone and other tissues.
However, when gingivitis goes untreated, periodontitis can easily result. Once periodontitis sets in, pockets begin forming as the inner layers of the bones and gums begin to recede or pull away from the teeth. Eventually, debris collects within these pockets and infection sets in. As plaque grows and spreads below your gum line, your immune system begins fighting the infection. Unfortunately, the “good” enzymes work with the poisons and toxins in the bacteria and start breaking down the connective tissues and jaw bone.
6 Common Causes Of Periodontal Diseases
Although plaque is the most common cause of periodontal diseases, there are other factors involved which also contribute to development of periodontal disease including:
- Bad habits such as tobacco smoking
- Dental diseases in your family history
- Hormonal changes that occur during menopause, monthly menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and puberty
- Illnesses such as cancer and HIV/AIDS
- Medications including Adalat, Dilantin, and Procardia
- Not brushing and flossing after meals or poor oral hygiene
Although periodontal disease is very common in millions of adults, it can be treated at our Community Dental Group office in Thousand Oaks.