{"id":128,"date":"2022-08-11T13:46:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-11T13:46:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mccombdental.com\/blog\/?p=128"},"modified":"2023-01-19T13:48:16","modified_gmt":"2023-01-19T13:48:16","slug":"difference-between-gingivitis-and-periodontitis-gum-disease","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mccombdental.com\/blog\/difference-between-gingivitis-and-periodontitis-gum-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis: What\u2019s the Difference?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Taking proper care of your teeth and gums is essential for a healthy smile. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly will help ensure that gingivitis and periodontitis don\u2019t happen to you. While you\u2019ve likely heard those words used in a dentist\u2019s office before, you may not be completely sure of what they mean. In this blog post, you\u2019ll learn more about these stages of gum disease and what you can do to keep your gums in optimal condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is Gingivitis?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gingivitis<\/a> is used to describe a mild form of gum disease. It\u2019s incredibly common and often goes unnoticed because it can be hard to spot. When plaque accumulates in the areas between the teeth, it can lead to gum inflammation and irritation, which are the symptoms of gingivitis. You should take it as your warning sign to be more proactive about your oral hygiene routine. With early intervention, you can treat and even reverse this condition before it progresses into something worse!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is Periodontitis?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If left untreated, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis, which is a much more severe form of gum disease. It causes the inner layer of the gum and bone to pull away from the teeth and periodontal pockets form with harmful bacteria. Plaque can spread and grow below the gum line, leading to tooth and bone loss. Unless you address the issue, periodontitis can lead to poor tooth alignment, gum recession, and clear pockets between the teeth and gums. Once bone loss occurs, it cannot be recovered. A few other symptoms of periodontitis include bad breath, gum recession, and pain while chewing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Keep Your Gums Healthy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Fortunately, there are many ways you can prevent the development and progression of gum disease! Here are some tips to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n