Comparison of Gingivitis and Periodontitis Based on 3 Criteria
Gingivitis only affects the gingival tissue and can be completely reversible, while periodontitis affects both the ligaments and alveolar bone and requires more intensive treatment. The table below summarizes the three main criteria.
| Criteria | Gingivitis | Peridonitis | ||
| Scope of Damage | Only in Gingival Tissue; There is no loss of attachment or bone resorption due to disease. | Spreads down to the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, causing the tooth to gradually lose its attachment. | ||
| Recovery potential | Complete recovery is possible if the cause is detected and controlled early. | Stable control is possible, but lost tissue and bone do not always regenerate spontaneously. | ||
| Corresponding treatment approach | Plaque control, hygiene guidance, professional cleaning. | Intensive treatment as indicated, subgingival cleaning, root surface treatment, maintenance and follow-up. | ||
These three criteria are closely related, so the following sections will follow. Let's delve into the recovery potential, as this is the most important difference.
Why is gingivitis reversible while periodontitis requires long-term control?
Gingivitis is reversible because the damage is limited to the gum tissue and hasn't yet destroyed the tooth's attachment to the jawbone. Once bacterial plaque is controlled, the gums can return to their pink and firm state. With periodontitis, inflammation gradually destroys ligaments and bone, so the goal of treatment is to bring the disease to a stable, controlled state and stop its progression.
Lost tissue and bone don't always regenerate spontaneously, but the disease can still be well controlled with proper treatment and regular check-ups, and in some cases, partial regeneration is possible depending on the severity. Periodontitis often develops from untreated gingivitis, but not everyone with gingivitis develops periodontitis, and the rate varies from person to person, so there's no general timeframe.
Therefore, early detection helps you preserve more supporting tissue. So how do you know which stage you're in?
How to tell if you have gingivitis or periodontitis?
You can't tell the difference with the naked eye, as both conditions can have swollen, red, and bleeding gums. The difference lies in the area below the gums and within the bone: the dentist measures the depth of the periodontal pockets, assesses the degree of attachment loss, and takes X-rays to examine the alveolar bone.
If you also have persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, or pus, refer to the article on signs of periodontitis and seek medical attention early. Once diagnosed as periodontitis, the dentist will further classify it by stage.
Measuring periodontal pockets is a routine examination step; Dental Fam performs each step in a way that makes you as comfortable as possible, and the X-rays for treatment are provided free of charge. The duration of the first examination and diagnosis depends on each individual's condition; the doctor will inform you when you arrive. At the clinic, the assessment proceeds as follows...
How does Dental Fam differentiate between the two conditions?
Dental Fam differentiates between the two conditions using measurements and X-rays, then chooses the appropriate treatment for each case. If it's just gingivitis, you should still see a dentist for proper diagnosis. The dentist will guide you on plaque control and professional cleaning when needed, while maintaining proper oral hygiene at home.
If it's periodontitis, the dentist will prescribe one of three options: non-surgical treatment (from 500,000 VND per tooth), LASER (laser treatment) (from 1,000,000 VND per tooth), or surgical treatment (from 2,000,000 VND per tooth), including examination and consultation. The three options are determined by the condition of each tooth: LASER is a different technology, not an upgrade, and doesn't necessarily mean the condition is more severe; surgery is indicated independently if the tooth requires it.
You can check the price list for periodontal disease treatment and details on the periodontal disease treatment page in Nha Trang. The summary below outlines the key points to remember:
Gingivitis only affects the gum tissue and can be completely cured if detected early, while periodontitis has spread to the ligaments and alveolar bone and requires professional treatment. You cannot distinguish between the two with the naked eye, as periodontal pocket measurement and X-rays are needed. Early detection of gingivitis makes treatment simpler.
At Dental Fam, periodontal treatment starts from 500,000 VND per tooth, including examination and consultation. Please schedule an appointment to determine your exact condition.
Dental Fam - Family Clinic
- Address: NOTT 28, 29, 30, Phuoc Long A Urban Area, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa
- Hotline: +84 582 582 345 / +84 983 001 768
- Email: info@dentalfam.vn