Gum disease is a threat to teeth and gums, and gingivitis is gum disease in its earliest stages. So the question emerges: how dangerous is gingivitis? Take a look at the symptoms of gingivitis, how much of a threat it is to your mouth and what treatment options are available to keep it in check.
The Symptoms of Gingivitis
Though the staff at a dentist’s office can give you definitive answers, understanding the symptom of gingivitis can help you get a better idea of where you stand and how serious your condition is.
These are some of the most common symptoms of gingivitis:
· Mild to moderate bleeding when brushing or flossing
· Tender gums and visible swelling
· Dark, discolored gums
· Receding gums that make the teeth appear to be getting longer
Progression to Periodontitis
Gingivitis can be reversed, though it’ll take a good deal of effort to do so. You’ll have to stick to a daily routine of brushing, flossing and rinsing your mouth with an oral antiseptic. You’ll also need to visit your dentist’s office regularly, where the staff can remove plaque that has hardened into tartar on your teeth.
Periodontitis can’t be reversed. At best, it can be stopped from doing more damage. Once your gum disease has progressed from gingivitis to periodontitis, the threat of decay becomes much more elevated. That’s because periodontitis is characterized by the irreversible damage it does.
Periodontitis and gingivitis share many of the same symptoms, though they tend to be more severe for the former than they are for the latter. Here are some of the symptoms of gum disease that are unique to periodontitis:
· Pain when chewing
· Clear evidence of receding gums
· Loose teeth
· Gums bleed easily
· Your bite changes slightly as loose teeth shift
The line between gingivitis and periodontitis marks the difference between correctable and irreversible damage. However, it can be extremely difficult for the untrained eye to spot this line. So, the best way to avoid the most serious dangers of gum disease is to stay in touch with your dentist.
Find Out More
Schedule a consultation with a local dentist to find out more about your options for treating gum disease in Naples, FL.
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