We use cookies to improve your experience on our site. By using our site, you agree to our use of cookies. More
Healthy gums are one of the cornerstones of overall oral health. Periodontology is the branch of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum (periodontal) diseases. Healthy gums help maintain the health of teeth and jawbone. In this article you will find everything you need to know about what periodontology is, which treatments it includes and why it is important.
Periodontology concerns the health of the gums and the supporting tissues that surround the teeth. Periodontal diseases are infections and inflammatory conditions that affect the gums, the bone structures supporting the teeth and other supportive tissues. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to tooth loss and other systemic health problems.
Periodontal disease usually begins as gum inflammation (gingivitis) and, if untreated, can progress to more severe conditions such as periodontitis. Common signs and symptoms include:
Gum bleeding: Bleeding during brushing or flossing.
Gum swelling and redness: Inflamed, tender or red gums.
Gum recession: Receding gums that expose tooth roots.
Bad breath: Persistent halitosis.
Tooth mobility: Loosening or shifting of teeth.
Difficulty chewing: Pain or discomfort when chewing.
A periodontal treatment plan depends on the severity of the disease and the patient’s general health. Common periodontal therapies include:
Professional dental cleaning (scaling): A clinical cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces; effective in early-stage disease.
Root surface debridement (curettage / scaling and root planing): Deep cleaning of root surfaces to remove tartar and plaque, helping gums attach more tightly to the roots.
Antibiotic therapy: Systemic or local antibiotics may be used to control periodontal infections and reduce inflammation.
Surgical interventions: Advanced periodontitis may require surgery such as flap surgery, bone grafting and soft tissue grafts to reshape and restore gums and bone.
Gingival grafting: Tissue grafts (taken from another oral site) to correct gum recession and protect exposed roots.
Preservation of gum health: Periodontal care prevents and treats gum disease.
Prevention of tooth loss: Early and appropriate treatment reduces the risk of tooth loss due to periodontal disease.
Positive effects on general health: Healthy gums contribute to overall health and may lower the risk of systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Functional and aesthetic improvement: Periodontal treatments restore both appearance and function of the gums and teeth.
Elimination of bad breath and discomfort: Treatment removes causes of halitosis and periodontal discomfort.
To protect against periodontal disease, regular dental check-ups and excellent oral hygiene are essential. Brush your teeth regularly, use dental floss, maintain a healthy diet and avoid tobacco products to preserve gum health.
Periodontology is an essential dental specialty for maintaining gum health and treating periodontal disease. If you have signs of gum problems, contact your dentist to learn about appropriate periodontal treatments.