What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis and periodontitis are both forms of gum inflammation, but they differ greatly in severity and consequences. Whereas gingivitis is a mild and reversible inflammation, periodontitis can lead to permanent damage to the gums and jawbone. We help you recognise the difference and start the right treatment in time. Do you suffer from either of them? Make an appointment at Loef Mondzorg in Rotterdam right away!
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a superficial gum inflammation caused by the build-up of plaque along the gum line. The gums become irritated and red and may bleed when brushing or flossing.
With gingivitis the gums are inflamed, but there is no damage yet to the jawbone or the attachment of the teeth. With good oral hygiene and professional cleaning, gingivitis can be fully reversed.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum inflammation that develops when gingivitis is not treated. The inflammation spreads to deeper tissues and affects the jawbone.
This creates so-called pockets (spaces between tooth and gum), and your teeth and molars may eventually become loose. Damage caused by periodontitis is not reversible, but it can be stopped with the right treatment.
What is the main difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
The main difference is that gingivitis is reversible, whereas periodontitis causes permanent damage.
With gingivitis only the gums are inflamed, whereas with periodontitis the supporting tissue and the jawbone are also affected. Early detection therefore makes a big difference in preserving your teeth. We are here to help!
What are the symptoms of gingivitis and periodontitis?
Symptoms of gingivitis
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Sensitive gums
- Bad breath
Symptoms of periodontitis
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth or molars
- Persistent bad breath
- Deep pockets around the teeth
- Changes in the position of the teeth
Because periodontitis often causes little pain, the problem sometimes goes unnoticed for a long time.
How do we determine at Loef Mondzorg whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis?
At Loef Mondzorg we examine the gums during a check-up or dental hygiene appointment. We measure the depth of the pockets, assess the gums and, if necessary, take X-rays to determine jawbone loss.
Based on this information, we determine whether it is gingivitis or periodontitis and draw up a suitable treatment plan.
How are gingivitis and periodontitis treated?
We treat gingivitis with a professional dental cleaning by the dental hygienist, combined with good brushing and cleaning instructions. In most cases the gums recover fully.
Periodontitis requires a more intensive treatment process. This often starts with deeper cleaning by the dental hygienist. If the inflammation does not recover sufficiently, a referral to a periodontist may be needed.
Loef Mondzorg remains involved in the aftercare and check-ups.
What happens if my gum inflammation is not treated?
Untreated gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, resulting in permanent bone loss and eventually tooth loss.
Severe gum inflammation is also associated with general health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Timely treatment is therefore essential.
Not sure what exactly is bothering you?
Do you have bleeding or receding gums and would you like to know what is going on? At Loef Mondzorg in Rotterdam we examine your gums carefully and give you clear advice. That way you know where you stand, and together we can prevent further problems.
Make an appointment for a consultation today or contact us for more information. Call us directly, or register online first and then schedule an appointment.
Patient experiences
Our patients' experiences
Getting here
Loef Mondzorg
Our dental practice at Weena 91 is easy to reach, right in the centre of Rotterdam and within walking distance of Rotterdam Central Station. Thanks to this central location, the practice is easily accessible by public transport: several train, metro, tram and bus lines stop close to the Weena, including metro lines B, D and E. From Rotterdam Central Station you will be at the practice within a few minutes, making it ideal for residents of Rotterdam as well as patients from surrounding towns.
The practice is also easy to reach by car via the main roads into the city centre, with parking facilities nearby. This means Loef Mondzorg combines a central location with excellent accessibility, both by public transport and by car.
Rotterdam City Centre location
- Weena 91, 3013 CH Rotterdam
- 010 200 4815
- info@loefmondzorg.nl
- KVK 82679282
Opening hours Open now · today until 17:00
- Monday 08:00 – 17:00
- Tuesday 08:00 – 21:00
- Wednesday 08:00 – 17:00
- Thursday 08:00 – 17:00
- Friday 08:00 – 17:00
- Saturday 09:00 – 16:00
- Sunday Closed
Also open on Tuesday evenings until 21:00 — easy to combine your visit with work.
Register
Register
Our team of dedicated care providers knows how important a healthy, pain-free mouth and a radiant smile are for your quality of life and self-confidence. Curious about our practice? Register and come and visit us. We are happy to guide you through the world of dental care and explain everything clearly with helpful instruction videos.
- Short waiting times
- Easy to reach
- Emergency? We can see you the same day!
- We tell the story of your mouth
- Digital dentistry