How to Determine Whether It's Pulpitis or Gingivitis

To determine whether it is pulpitis or gingivitis, one can make a judgment based on several aspects including the location of the lesion, nature of the pain, duration of pain, and oral examination. Pulpitis primarily occurs in the pulp tissue inside the tooth, presenting with severe spontaneous pain that intensifies at night and upon exposure to cold or hot stimuli. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as tenderness upon biting and tooth mobility. Gingivitis, on the other hand, mainly affects the marginal gingiva and interdental papillae, manifesting as gingival congestion, edema, bleeding, and color abnormalities. The pain associated with gingivitis is relatively mild, often a dull ache that is bearable. Additionally, oral examination may reveal signs such as dental caries and deep periodontal pockets in patients with pulpitis, while patients with gingivitis typically show changes in the shape and texture of the gums. If there is any concern, timely medical consultation is recommended for diagnosis and treatment by a qualified dentist.