Gingivitis and Periodontitis in Purcellville, VA
Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong smile, but when plaque and bacteria build up, they can cause gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Common signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. At South Fork Dentistry in Purcellville, VA, Dr. Simren Singh provides thorough cleanings and personalized care to stop gingivitis early and restore gum health before it becomes more serious.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that damages the bone supporting your teeth. This can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, or even tooth loss. Dr. Singh and her team use advanced treatments, preventive care, and routine checkups to manage gum disease and protect your long-term oral health—helping you maintain healthy gums and a confident smile for years to come.
FAQ GINGIVITIS AND PERIODONTITIS at South Fork Dentistry
What is gingivitis and is that different from periodontitis?
Great question. Gingivitis is when your gums get red and puffy, and they may even bleed when you brush and floss. That is the early sign of periodontitis. Periodontitis still involves red, puffy, bleeding gums, but the bone is now involved. It's more serious and harder to clear up when it happens.
What are the first symptoms of gingivitis?
The first symptoms of gingivitis might be some bleeding in the sink after you spit out when you're brushing and flossing. You may also notice some bad breath or soreness when you're brushing.
How dangerous is gingivitis?
Gingivitis by itself is not that dangerous and can be treated with cleanings and good oral hygiene. However, if left untreated, it can cause periodontitis, which can lead to bone loss that is irreversible. Gum disease in its own gingivitis the form is not as severe. Periodontitis can be severe.
How do hygienists treat gingivitis?
Great question. We treat gingivitis with a deep cleaning, sometimes called a gingivitis cleaning. It's where we get all that nasty bacteria that's deep underneath your gums out. We also sometimes need to use special mouthwashes or antibiotics to help get rid of the extra bacteria that are floating around in your mouth.
Can you have gingivitis and periodontitis at the same time?
Absolutely. All of your teeth can be at a different level of infection at the same time. You might have some teeth in the back with periodontal disease or periodontitis and some teeth in the front that are just starting out with gingivitis.
What are the causes of periodontal disease?
Great question. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria that sit in your gums for too long. If plaque is left behind after you brush or floss, or if you haven't brushed and flossed in a while, that plaque can harden and form tartar. This tartar irritates the body and causes the bone to start to wash away.
What other conditions are connected to periodontal disease?
Surprisingly, many other systemic health conditions are linked to periodontal disease. Alzheimer's, heart disease, and even diabetes can be linked to poor oral hygiene.
When should I schedule a dental appointment if I think I have gingivitis?
As soon as possible. The earlier we can treat gingivitis, the easier it is to clear up and the less damage to your gums and even the bone.
Can periodontal disease be cured?
No, periodontal disease can't be cured. Once you've lost bone, you can't get it back. We have to manage it and stabilize it. We do that by starting with a deep cleaning to make sure we've removed all the bacteria underneath your gums, and then we see you more frequently to ensure that the bacteria doesn't return. If we get any flare-ups of the condition, we can treat them with antibiotics or special mouth rinses at that time.
Are deep cleanings painful?
That's a good question. Deep cleanings can be uncomfortable, but we numb you with either a topical numbing agent or a localized anesthetic to make it more comfortable. Afterwards, if you experience any tenderness, it can usually be controlled with over-the-counter Tylenol, ibuprofen, or Advil to help with any soreness.
