Brief introduction to the two main periodontal diseases

Question 1

What is gingivitis?

Answer 1

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gingiva, in response to accumulation of plaque around the teeth.

Question 2

What are the clinical signs for gingivitis?

Answer 2

Clinical signs are:
* Erythema (redness)
* Odema (swelling)
* Absence of stippling on attached gingiva
* Bleeding on probing and patients may report bleeding on brushing

Question 3

Is gingivitis reversible?

Answer 3

This is a common condition and is completely reversible. If optimal plaque control is implemented by the patient and plaque is removed regularly gingivitis will be reversed. If not resolved it can develop into something my serious periodontitis.

Question 4

what is periodontitis?

Answer 4

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the supporting tissue to the teeth would lead to permanent damage resulting in bone loss.

Question 5

What are the clinical signs for periodontitis?

Answer 5

All mentioned for gingivitis in addition:
* Pocket formation (gums become detached from the root surface forming a pockt where plaque accumulates causing more inflammation resulting in deepening pockets)
* Gingival recession (receding gums)
* Tooth mobility
* Tooth drifting
* Halitosis (bad breath)

Question 6

What can happen is periodontitis remains untreated?

Answer 6

If not treated the tooth mobility and drifting worsens leading to tooth exfoliation which will lead to the tooth falling out.