What you will find in this article:

• Gingivitis and periodontitis: find out what they are
  
  • Gingivitis
  • Periodontitis
• Differences between gingivitis and periodontitis
• The importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment
• Treatment for gingivitis and periodontitis
• Gum treatment in Rio de Janeiro

Gingivitis and periodontitis are very common diseases that can cause serious consequences if left undiagnosed and untreated. One of the main ones is the loss of natural teeth. 

Still don’t know the details about these conditions? No problem! In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about gingivitis and periodontitis to avoid complications. Read on!

Gingivitis and periodontitis: find out what they are

First, it’s important to know what gingivitis and periodontitis are. Below, you’ll find out more about these conditions, including causes and symptoms, so you can learn more about each one:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, which are the tissues that line the jawbone. The main cause of this disease is poor oral hygiene or poor oral hygiene, which leads to the formation of plaque and inflammation.

But that's not the only cause! The disease can be associated with hormonal changes, systemic conditions (diabetes, for example), use of certain medications, genetic factors and smoking. 

The condition is silent, so the patient has difficulty identifying the symptoms easily. This is a problem because it ends up delaying the search for a dentist, diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of complications.

Check out the most common symptoms of gingivitis to keep an eye on and see a dentist as soon as possible if you identify them:

• Bleeding gums during brushing and/or flossing;
• Redness and swelling of the gums;
• Persistent bad breath;
• Change in taste.

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Periodontitis

It is a chronic inflammation that affects the periodontium, that is, the tissues and bones that support the natural teeth. Periodontitis is considered an evolution of gingivitis and its most serious consequence is tooth loss.

Therefore, periodontitis is caused by untreated gingivitis. Bacteria that accumulate on the gums and teeth form a biofilm, which mineralizes and turns into tartar. The bacteria then produce acids and toxins that irritate the gums and demineralize the teeth. See how gingivitis progresses to periodontitis (space to insert the image):

The symptoms of periodontitis include the same as those of gingivitis and others, but they are more pronounced and noticeable to the patient. Typically, they involve:

• Pain when chewing;
• Increased tooth sensitivity;
• Bleeding gums;
• Gum retraction, making teeth visibly longer;
• Deep pockets between the teeth and gums;
• Tooth mobility or loose teeth;
• Darker colored gums.

Differences between gingivitis and periodontitis

Many people confuse gingivitis and periodontitis, but they are not the same thing. Both diseases have important differences that impact treatment. Here are the main ones:

• Location of inflammation: in gingivitis, the inflammation is only in the gums. In periodontitis, it is in the supporting tissues of the tooth;
• Severity: Periodontitis is considered serious, due to the possibility of losing a natural tooth. Gingivitis, on the other hand, is a mild condition;
• Reversibility: gingivitis is more easily reversible, while periodontitis is not;
• Treatment: gingivitis can be treated with simple procedures, such as dental cleaning, but periodontitis requires more invasive interventions, depending on the case.

The importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment

Early diagnosis and proper treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis prevent serious complications, such as tooth loss. In addition, they help patients maintain their oral health.

Oral health is linked to overall health. Oral infections can increase the risk of heart disease, for example. When oral health is compromised, it negatively impacts food digestion.

Oral health also has an impact on the preservation of teeth, the aesthetics of the smile and the patient's self-esteem. Having a complete and beautiful smile generates well-being and self-confidence. Therefore, be sure to consult a dentist if you identify signs of these diseases!

Treatment for gingivitis and periodontitis

Treatment for gingivitis and periodontitis varies because they are different conditions. Specifically for gingivitis, treatment involves professional cleaning, adoption of proper oral hygiene habits and, eventually, use of specific antiseptics or medications.

In the case of periodontal treatment, the ideal procedure varies according to the severity of the case. Among the main approaches is scaling and root planing, which is a deep cleaning to remove bacteria and smooth the surfaces of the tooth roots.

The dentist may also prescribe medication and recommend periodontal surgery (in cases of more severe tissue damage). Treatment also involves frequent checkups to monitor and control the disease.

Gum treatment in Rio de Janeiro 

Are you looking for gum treatment? Odonto Liuzzi is the best clinic to take care of your smile! We have specialists in periodontal diseases and cutting-edge technology for accurate diagnoses and treatments.

In addition, the clinic is a reference in humanized dentistry, providing differentiated care to patients. Schedule an evaluation and make an appointment. dental treatments in Rio de Janeiro with experts.

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