How to Determine if It's Periodontitis or Pulpitis

To differentiate between periodontitis and pulpitis, the following aspects can be considered: 1. **Pain characteristics**: Periodontitis often presents with aching pain in the gums, accompanied by bleeding; pulpitis, on the other hand, manifests as severe internal tooth pain that may radiate to the face or head, and is sensitive to temperature stimuli. 2. **Symptoms**: Periodontitis is commonly associated with symptoms such as gum bleeding, redness and swelling, bad breath, and loose teeth; pulpitis may present with severe toothache, darkening of the tooth color, and sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli. 3. **Causes and location**: Periodontitis is usually caused by dental plaque and tartar, with inflammation primarily affecting the gums and periodontal tissues; pulpitis results from dental caries or dental trauma, with inflammation concentrated in the pulp chamber inside the tooth. 4. **Gum condition**: Patients with periodontitis often have red, swollen gums that bleed easily; patients with pulpitis may have gums that appear normal. If in doubt, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention for diagnosis and treatment by a qualified dental professional.