What Makes Gingivitis Different From Periodontal Disease?

You may have heard the terms gingivitis and gum disease used interchangeably in the past. While both are a result of bacteria attacking your periodontal tissues, there is a reason to think of them as distinct issues. Gingivitis is the first stage of a periodontal infection. At this point, it is possible for you to put a stop to the problem, reverse the infection, and return your gums to their normal health. However, if bacteria are given enough time, you can experience worrying tissue damage as your case progresses to advanced gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, or periodontitis. At our Encinitas/San Diego, CA periodontal practice, we offer a range of modern treatments that help people protect their tissues from harm, and we provide preventive treatments for gingivitis that can prevent this advanced trouble.

Gingivitis That Goes Untreated Can Lead To Complications

Gingivitis can cause symptoms that may provoke concern, but people can make the mistake of overlooking the threat of this infection. If you notice that your gums start to bleed easily when you brush and floss, if you think your periodontal tissues look red or swollen, or if you think your gum line might be receding, gingivitis can be the culprit behind these issues. When an infection at this stage is addressed, the problem can be managed, and you can once again enjoy good periodontal health. Unfortunately, the problem can become difficult to contain if your infection develops and you experience periodontal disease. At this point, your general health can become harder to manage, and there is a heightened risk for suffering tooth loss.

Evaluating The Condition Of Your Gums

Our practice provides diagnostic reviews that allow us to determine what condition your gums might be in, which can help us determine a treatment. Once we understand the extent of your damage, we can start reviewing your treatment options. We use a series of modern procedures that can help you control an infection, and even recover from tissue damage, while minimizing the work you have to undergo.

We Can Help You Protect Your Smile Against The Effects Of Periodontal Disease

We use advanced laser treatments to repair smiles by carefully clearing away infected tissues, allowing healthy gum tissues to grow in their place. We can also use PRP therapy to stimulate faster growth of healthy gums. With these services, we can start to undo the harm that periodontitis has done to your oral health. If you have already suffered tooth loss as a result of periodontitis, we can work with you to provide dental implants to support a durable dental prosthetic.

Talk To Dr. Kania About Gingivitis And Periodontal Disease

At our Encinitas/San Diego, CA periodontal practice, Dr. Kania is ready to help patients who are struggling with periodontal disease! If you have this condition, or if you are noticing signs of gingivitis, expert care can offer valuable smile protection. To seek Dr. Kania’s expertise, contact her office today at (760) 642-0711.