A woman pulling down her lip to show red, inflamed and bleeding gums

Gingivitis and
Periodontitis

Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss1

Gum disease refers to an infection of the gums, also known as periodontal disease. It occurs when bacteria in plaque build up on the teeth and gums, causing inflammation and irritation. Initially, gum disease may cause symptoms like redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe forms, leading to gum recession, tooth loss, and damage to the bones supporting the teeth. Practising good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prevent gum disease.

The stages of periodontal disease1

  1. Illustration of a tooth with plaque along an inflamed gumline

    Gingivitis

    Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It happens when plaque builds up along the gumline, causing inflammation. If brushing and flossing don’t remove the plaque, it releases toxins that make the gums bleed. At this stage, the damage is reversible because the bone and tissue supporting the teeth are not yet affected.

  2. Illustration of a tooth with plaque below the gumline and early bone loss

    Mild periodontitis

    At this stage, the bone and fibers holding the teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. The gums might start forming a pocket under the gumline, trapping food and plaque. However, with proper dental care and good oral hygiene habits, further damage can often be prevented.

  3. Illustration of a tooth with deep plaque and significant bone loss

    Moderate periodontitis

    Moderate periodontitis represents a significant advancement of gum disease, gradually damaging the bone structure that holds the teeth in place. This deterioration may lead to tooth looseness and changes in bite alignment. Although treatment is still possible at this stage, postponing care can lead to further and more severe harm.

  4. Illustration of a loose, decayed tooth with severe bone loss

    Severe periodontitis

    In the last stage of gum disease, the fibers and bones supporting the teeth are destroyed, making the teeth shift or loosen. This can affect biting, and if aggressive treatment is unsuccessful, the teeth may need to be pulled out.

Who are at risk?⁠2

Anyone can get gingivitis if they’re not careful with their oral hygiene. However, smokers, diabetics, and those with a family history of gum disease are at a higher risk. Hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy too, can make a person more susceptible. Left unchecked, gingivitis opens the door for periodontitis to sneak right in and cause further havoc!

What happens if ignored?⁠2

Ignoring gingivitis is like ignoring a small leak in the house roof – it can lead to bigger problems down the line. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious condition called periodontitis whereby further problems would arise, like persistent bad breath, receding gums, and even teeth that feel loose. The good news is, it’s not too late to turn things around with the right treatment.

Prevention and treatment1

  • Step Up Your Oral Hygiene: Start by brushing twice a day and flossing daily to keep plaque in check. Your dentist might also recommend using an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria.
  • Professional Cleanings: Regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings can remove plaque and tartar buildup that you can’t reach at home. It’s like giving your teeth a spa day!
  • Scaling and Root Planing: If your gum disease has progressed, your dentist might recommend a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing. It’s like a thorough deep cleaning for your gums, removing bacteria and smoothing out rough spots on your tooth roots to help your gums reattach. Both single-ended and double-ended root planing is useful for both gingivitis and periodontitis treatment.
  • Surgery: In severe cases where gum tissue or bone loss has occurred, surgical procedures like gum grafts or flap surgery may be necessary to restore gum health.

Remember, prevention is key! Taking care of your oral health with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help keep gingivitis and periodontitis at bay, ensuring a healthy smile for years to come.

GENGIGEL® Gingival Gel tube

To protect and heal problematic gums

Use GENGIGEL® Gel to calm inflammation and irritation caused by gingivitis. It creates a protective barrier over the gums, like a shield, keeping harmful bacteria at bay while the gums heal. For periodontitis, GENGIGEL® goes deep between the gums and teeth to help repair and heal the tissues. Whether it’s gingivitis or periodontitis, GENGIGEL® is your trusted companion on the journey to healthier gums.

References: 1. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/gingivitis-periodontal-disease 2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gingivitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354453