Periodontology

PERIODONTOLOGY

Periodontology is the branch of dentistry concerned with the treatment of the periodontium, which is the tissue that supports the teeth: gums and bone.

Two of the main periodontal conditions are gingivitis and periodontal disease. These are serious infections caused by the bacteria in dental plaque, and they can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

What is gingivitis?

When the plaque along the gums is not properly cleaned, inflammation appears after a few days: this is gingivitis.
The gums become reddened and swollen, and they bleed easily.
How is gingivitis treated?

Gingivitis is reversible.

A simple descaling together with appropriate oral hygiene advice

is sufficient to cure it in most cases.

However, if the gums are very swollen, surgical treatment may be required.

What is periodontitis?

Other names for this include loose teeth and periodontal disease.

Over time, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis.

The bacteria in dental plaque accumulates under the gums, causing an inflammatory reaction.

As a result, pockets develop between the roots and the gums, and the supporting bone

is destroyed little by little.

This process is usually painless, but if left untreated the teeth become mobile. Unfortunately, the final stage of periodontitis is tooth loss.

What are the risk factors?

Chronic periodontitis usually occurs as we get older.

Scientific studies have shown that after the age of 40, we tend to lose teeth due to periodontal problems more than due to problems related to cavities.

However, a form of periodontitis can occur at any age in people who are genetically susceptible.

Some of the other main risk factors are smoking, diabetes and stress.

How is periodontitis treated?

The periodontist's first step will be to take stock of the condition of the teeth and gums, which will then permit them to make a diagnosis and a treatment plan. This will often consist of the following steps:

A phase of gum cleansing combined with hygiene advice, as well as deep descaling under local anaesthetic
Extraction of teeth that can not be saved
In severe cases, periodontal surgery with the aim of reducing the depth of gingival pockets and facilitating dental hygiene
In some cases, surgery can allow the bone around the roots to regenerate

Periodontitis and the associated health risks

Research has demonstrated that there is an association between periodontitis and certain medical problems, such as cardiovascular and bronchopulmonary conditions. In addition, it has been observed that the number of premature babies increases among pregnant women who have periodontitis.

Furthermore, a study has confirmed that treatment of periodontitis benefits diabetes patients.

What are the other functions of the periodontologist?

When the gums have retracted as a result of overly aggressive brushing or sometimes after orthodontic treatment, we speak of gum recession. These can induce sensitivities to hot and cold as well as aesthetic damage. The specialist can then perform a gum graft to remedy the problems.

When one or more teeth have been lost, the periodontologist, by virtue of his training, is best able to place implants.