Gingivitis vs periodontitis in Montreal — these two gum diseases are often confused, but understanding the difference is critical for your oral health. While gingivitis is reversible with proper treatment, periodontitis involves permanent bone loss and requires ongoing management to prevent tooth loss.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest, mildest form of gum disease — an inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial plaque buildup along the gumline. The good news: it is fully reversible with professional treatment and improved home care.
Gingivitis Symptoms
- Red or purple gums (instead of healthy pink)
- Swollen, puffy gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Tender gums when touched
- No pain in most cases — gingivitis is often silent
- No bone loss — teeth remain firmly attached
What Causes Gingivitis?
- Poor oral hygiene allowing plaque to accumulate
- Infrequent or no dental cleanings
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, puberty, menopause)
- Diabetes and immunosuppressive conditions
- Certain medications causing gum overgrowth
Gingivitis Treatment
- Professional dental cleaning (scaling)
- Improved brushing technique: 2 minutes, 2x/day with soft brush
- Daily flossing
- Antiseptic mouthwash (chlorhexidine) if prescribed
- Results: most cases resolve within 2 weeks of treatment
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is advanced gum disease that develops when untreated gingivitis progresses and bacteria spread below the gumline, destroying the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Unlike gingivitis, the bone loss from periodontitis is permanent and irreversible.
Periodontitis Symptoms
- All gingivitis symptoms (bleeding, swelling) plus:
- Gum recession — teeth appear longer than before
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums (4mm+)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in bite (teeth no longer fit together properly)
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Tooth sensitivity from exposed roots
- Tooth loss in severe cases
Periodontitis Treatment Options
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning): removes bacteria below the gumline — performed under local anesthesia by quadrant — cost: $200–$400/quadrant
- Antibiotic therapy: local antibiotics placed in pockets or systemic antibiotics
- Periodontal surgery: for advanced cases where deep cleaning is insufficient
- Maintenance therapy: professional cleanings every 3–4 months for life
Gingivitis vs Periodontitis: Key Differences
| Feature | Gingivitis | Periodontitis |
|---|---|---|
| Bone loss | None | Yes (irreversible) |
| Reversible | Yes | No (manageable only) |
| Pocket depth | 1–3mm (normal) | 4mm+ (pathological) |
| Tooth stability | Stable | May become loose |
| Tooth loss risk | None | Significant |
| Treatment | Regular cleaning | Deep cleaning + surgery |
| Systemic links | Minimal | Heart disease, diabetes |
Concerned about your gum health? Book a periodontal assessment at Écodentaire — early detection of gingivitis prevents irreversible bone loss:
📍 Écodentaire Concordia Atwater: 1801 Maisonneuve Ouest, Suite 730 — (514) 933-3641
📍 Écodentaire Outremont: 6100 Avenue du Boisé — (514) 504-6060
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