When you go to a dentist for a checkup, you'll be hoping to come away with a good scorecard and hope that inattention or bad habits along the way may not have caused any lasting issues. However, some people may be told that there is evidence of gingivitis and that if left unchecked, this could develop into periodontitis. Clearly, these are worrying terms, but what do they actually mean, and what can you do to avoid any major issues? 

Gingivitis

If you're diagnosed as suffering from gingivitis, it means that you have inflammation of the gums. This can happen if plaque is allowed to accumulate in between the teeth. When this happens, the bacteria within the plaque can infect the gums, which will become inflamed. As a result, the gums will appear red and swollen and easily bleed when you brush your teeth.

This is not the end of the world from an oral health point of view, so long as steps are taken to reverse the inflammation, and more attention is given to brushing and flossing. However, gingivitis can develop and become periodontitis, which is a much more serious condition and can damage the gums or even the jawbone.

Periodontitis

If you were to develop periodontitis, the inflammation and infection would be so severe that it would cause the inner layer of the gum to pull away from the teeth. This would form pockets where debris could collect and exacerbate the infection. In addition, bacteria would continue to grow below the gum line, triggering a reaction from the immune system.

Progressive Stage

If left unchecked, the tissue that holds the teeth in place could deteriorate to such an extent that these teeth would become loose and invariably fall out. As a result, it would become painful to chew. Also, the teeth would be in poor alignment, and you might bite the inside of your cheek when eating (which is very painful). You'd certainly be generally unhappy.

There is even worse to come. When periodontitis becomes advanced, it may cause persistent, bad breath due to the sheer amount of excess bacteria in the mouth.

What to Do Next

So, you need to do everything that you can to avoid periodontitis. When a dentist tells you that you may have gingivitis, pay particular attention to your brushing and flossing. They may also advise you to use mouthwash that is designed to prevent or even reverse the condition. Don't forget to book a follow-up with that dentist and have regular checkups from now on.

For more info, contact a company like Smile Bright Family Dental.