Periodontology is the dental specialty concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of disorders. The problems related to the hard and soft tissues that support and protect the gums and teeth can be seen in this branch. It is also known as “gum disease”.
The hard and soft tissues that surround the tooth, collectively referred to as the periodontium, provide vital functions: They firmly affix teeth to the jaws, function as an isolator during biting and chewing, and protect teeth from extreme forces as a result. They hold teeth in place in the jaws so that they may function together effectively and pleasantly during chewing. Periodontology preserves the health and appearance of these structures and tissues.
In recent years, the significance of periodontology has risen to the forefront, and greater emphasis has been placed on this vital part of dental hygiene. In many respects, the mouth is a reflection of the overall health of the body. Plaque accumulation on the teeth is always the symptom of gum disease, but systemic disorders that affect the rest of the body can harm the supporting structures of the teeth.
Periodontists are trained in the most recent procedures for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. Additionally, they might undertake cosmetic periodontal operations to enhance the patient's smile. Periodontists are frequently referred by dentists to patients with severe gum disease for these reasons.
There are several indicators of gum disease. Bleeding gums during tooth brushing, red and sensitive gums that are easily separated from the teeth, receding ones, inflammation between the teeth and gums, gradually moving apart, a change in the relationship between the upper and lower teeth during biting, deterioration in partial dentures. Lastly, chronic halitosis.
However, periodontal disease can progress without showing any signs. Because of this, it is essential to visit the dentist on a regular basis.
Additionally, certain serious disorders are known to appear in the mouth before spreading elsewhere in the body. While examining a patient's mouth, a periodontist might occasionally uncover signs of a general ailment, like diabetes or blood problems.
The individual bears the lion's share of responsibility for preventing periodontal disease. In order to keep healthy teeth, it is vital to eliminate bacterial dental plaque by everyday oral hygiene practices. Visiting the dentist regularly is of equal importance. Daily mouth care can reduce calculus development, although they may not prevent it entirely. The elimination of existing dental plaque requires an assessment of places that cannot be accessed with a toothbrush, dental floss, or other cleaning instruments.
The illness may proceed to periodontitis and result irreversible harm to the gingiva and alveolar bone that support the teeth if left untreated. It is the most severe form of periodontal disease. The alveolar bone and the tissues that surround the teeth are damaged. The existence of a pocket between the tooth and gum aids infection localisation and disease development. As the illness advances, the teeth begin to tremble and may require extraction.
Factors that may increase the risk of periodontal disease are listed below.
Periodontal assessment is crucial in the following circumstances:
Following the removal of plaque and smoothing of the root surface, daily oral hygiene is adequate for a successful course of therapy. More advanced conditions may necessitate surgical intervention. The purpose of this therapy is to remove tartar from deep periodontal pockets near the teeth, reduce the pocket to assure its eradication, smooth the root surface, and produce a cleanable gingival contour.
Endodontists focus in the treatment of tooth discomfort and infection originating from within the tooth. Periodontists centers on gum inflammation, gum disorders, and the cure of these conditions.
No, gum disease treatment is not painful. A local anesthetic can be administered to the soft tissue in order to decrease any discomfort may feel by the patient throughout the procedure.
