Dental and oral health problems are often considered trivial, even though their impact can affect the health of the body as a whole. One of the most common dental health disorders is periodontal disease, which is divided into two main stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Although the two are related, it is important to understand the differences between the two in order to prevent more serious complications that can result in loose teeth to gum infections.
Getting to Know What Gingivitis Is
Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease characterized by inflammation of the gums, usually caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque. If not cleaned, the bacteria produce toxins that inflame the gums. Symptoms include red, swollen, tender gums that bleed easily, and bad breath.
Gingivitis does not cause permanent damage to the tooth tissue. With proper care, such as maintaining good dental hygiene, using dental floss, and cleaning tartar at the dentist, this condition can be completely resolved, preventing further development into periodontitis.
Knowing What Periodontitis Is
If gingivitis is not treated properly, it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the ligaments and bones. Symptoms include receding gums (gum recession), loose teeth, and periodontal pockets filled with bacteria (gum pockets).
In addition, sufferers can feel pain when chewing and bad breath is worse. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis requires more intensive treatment, such as scaling, root planing, gum medication therapy or even periodontal flap surgery to repair tissue and bone damage that occurs.
Key Differences Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Gingivitis and periodontitis have fundamental differences that lie in the severity and damage caused. Gingivitis is an early stage that only involves inflammation of the gums without causing permanent damage. In contrast, periodontitis is an advanced condition that can damage the supporting tissues of the teeth such as ligaments and bones, and is at risk of causing loose teeth so that the teeth cannot be maintained and must be removed.
In terms of symptoms, gingivitis usually only shows red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. Meanwhile, in periodontitis, symptoms involve gum swelling, gum recession, gum pocket formation, loose teeth, and pain when chewing.
Periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are not only caused by poor oral hygiene but also by various risk factors. Here are some of these factors that can help you prevent and manage tooth decay:
- Poor Dental Hygiene
Poor dental hygiene causes plaque to build up, which hardens into tartar. Plaque contains bacteria that trigger gingivitis and, if left untreated, progress to periodontitis, which destroys the bone that supports the teeth.
Routine care such as scaling every 6 months and the use of professional tools such as dental floss and water flossers are important to prevent further damage to the gums and bones.
- Smoking Habit
Smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease by damaging gum tissue, reducing blood flow, and inhibiting wound healing. Toxins also mask early signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
- Diabetes
People with diabetes with high blood sugar levels are at greater risk of developing periodontal disease. High blood sugar accelerates the growth of bacteria, while inflammation from diabetes worsens gum conditions, creating a vicious cycle that is dangerous to health.
- Genetic Factors
Some individuals have a genetic predisposition that makes them more susceptible to periodontal disease, despite maintaining good oral hygiene. Genetic factors influence the body's response to gum inflammation and damage.
- Stres
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body less effective at fighting infections, including periodontal infections. In addition, people who are stressed often tend to neglect oral hygiene, worsening the health of their teeth and gums.
- Bad Eating Habits
An imbalanced nutritional intake, such as a lack of vitamin C and calcium, can affect the health of gum tissue and the bones that support teeth. Vitamin C is important for strengthening gum tissue, while calcium supports the strength of the jawbone that supports teeth to remain solid.
The Importance of Prevention
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums requires consistent attention and preventive measures. With simple yet effective steps, you can prevent diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis that have the potential to damage your oral health.
- Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste to protect your tooth enamel from damage. Also use dental floss or an interdental brush to clean between your teeth where your brush can't reach, so that food debris doesn't become plaque.
- Visit the Dentist Regularly
Regular checkups every six months help detect dental and gum problems early. Dental cleaning by a dentist can prevent plaque buildup that can lead to gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Quit smoking
Smoking can damage gum tissue and interfere with blood flow to the area. By quitting, you will not only improve your gum health but also improve your body's ability to fight infection.
- Balanced Food Consumption
Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, and vitamin D, such as fatty fish, support healthy teeth and gums. The fiber from fruits and vegetables also helps to naturally clean the mouth when chewed.
- Manage Stress
Stress can affect the immune system, making the body more susceptible to disease, including gums. Do meditation, yoga, or light exercise to reduce stress and support overall health.
Why Should You Consult a Dentist?
If you experience symptoms such as swollen gums or loose teeth, consult a dentist immediately. Early treatment prevents further damage and maintains your oral health. Healthy mouth, healthy body! Don't ignore dental and gum health, because a healthy mouth is the gateway to a healthy body!
This article was written by drg. Eric Sulistio, Sp.Perio (Periodontist Specialist, EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).