Gingivitis and periodontal disease

• Gingivitis
• Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a mild and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. This early stage of periodontal disease is evident by red gums that will often bleed during flossing and brushing. The condition is caused by bacteria and bacterial byproducts that irritate the gums as well as food debris. Gingivitis is reversible with regular dental cleanings and continued good at-home oral hygiene.

Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease occurs as the result of a bacterial infection and is a more advanced and dangerous condition than gingivitis. The majority of the time, this condition is do to poor oral hygiene. When bacterial infection sets in, the body breaks down bone without replacing it as it would normally, resulting in a net bone loss. The body's natural response to the infection is to attack it, sending blood to the gums, causing swelling and sensitivity.

Swollen gums increase the distance between the gums and the bone. Patients can only clean just below the gum line with normal brushing and flossing, and as the infection worsens the space continues to grow and bone loss escalates. Dr. Rosenblitt may use x-rays, periodontal probing and visual inspection to diagnosis and plan treatment.

Factors that Increase Risk of Developing Periodontal Disease:

• Tobacco smoking or chewing
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes
• Some medication such as steroids, some anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
• Bridges that no longer fit properly
• Crooked teeth
• Fillings that have become defective
• Pregnancy

Watch for W arning Signs:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. That is why regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are crucial to your dental health.