Gum Disease, Gingivitis & Periodontitis

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

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Short answer

Gingivitis is the earliest, mildest stage of gum disease, involving red, swollen, or bleeding gums without any bone loss. Periodontitis is the more advanced stage, where the infection has spread below the gumline and started damaging the bone and tissue that hold teeth in place.

About this answer: Prepared by the AllSmiles Dental Editorial Team for general information. Your dentist can advise you based on an examination and your individual needs.

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Can gum disease be reversed?

Gingivitis, the early stage, is fully reversible with professional cleaning and consistent oral hygiene. Periodontitis, however, involves permanent bone and tissue loss, so treatment at that stage focuses on stopping further damage rather than restoring what's already been lost.

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How is gum disease treated by a dentist?

Treatment typically starts with scaling and root planing, a deep clean that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. More advanced cases may need antibiotics or gum surgery to reduce pocket depth and allow the gums to reattach to the tooth.

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