Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition of the gums surrounding the teeth. This inflammation is caused by plaque or biofilm that adheres onto your teeth. There is not attachment loss in gingivitis.

Periodontal Disease is also an inflammatory condition of the gums surrounding the teeth, also caused by plaque. However, periodontitis is characterised by a loss of attachment of the supporting periodontal tissues surrounding the teeth.

How does gingivitis and periodontitis develop?

Both gingivitis and periodontitis develop due to the body immune response to the plaque or biofilm that adheres onto the surface of the teeth.

How can I prevent developing gingivitis and periodontitis?

Its quite simple, follow these steps:
1. brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day
2. floss your teeth at least once per day
3. regularly visit your dentist to have the plaque removed from your teeth

If I have gingivitis or periodontitis, how do I get it treated?

Visit us for your regularly check up and we will examine your teeth. With gingivitis, a clean will usually help resolve this. In cases of periodontitis, you may need to undergo a more rigorous cleaning called “periodontal therapy”. This will be explained to you by the dentist.

There may be other underlying systemic reasons for these conditions, referral to the necessary health care professional may be required.