Periodontitis and Gingivitis - The Two Main Types of Gum Disease

Dr. Monica Boniadi graduated from University of California, Los Angeles with her DDS and has been practicing dentistry in the state for more than two decades. An award-winning professional, Monica Boniadi, DDS, is the owner and dentist at the Laser & Cosmetic Dental Institute of Orange County and provides such services as porcelain fillings, root canals, and treatment for gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gum disease is a serious ailment that can result in the loss of bone around the teeth and, if untreated, the loss of the teeth themselves. There are two main types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the most mild form of gum disease. It occurs when tartar and plaque are left on the teeth for too long due to poor oral hygiene. Bacteria from the tartar and plaque cause the gums to become red and swollen and prone to bleeding. Generally less severe, gingivitis does not cause any tissue or bone loss and it can be treated with regular brushing, flossing, and cleanings at the dentist.

Periodontitis is more serious and is occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. Over time, the plaque grows below the gum line, and the body begins breaking down tissue and bone around the teeth in as a part of its natural chronic inflammatory response to the toxins. The gums begin pulling away from the teeth, leaving open spaces that often become infected; if untreated, teeth normally must be removed. ​

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