Description

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, bone, and connective tissues. Common Periodontal Conditions and Diseases: 1. Gingivitis: - Definition: Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums. It is usually caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. - Symptoms: Red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. - Treatment: Gingivitis can typically be reversed with good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist. 2. Periodontitis: - Definition: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis involves the deeper tissues that support the teeth, including the bone. This can lead to tooth loss if not treated properly. - Symptoms: Gum recession, pockets between the gums and teeth, loose teeth, bad breath, and bleeding gums. - Treatment: Periodontitis may require more intensive treatments, such as: - Scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. - Antibiotic treatment: To control bacterial infection in the gums. - Surgical procedures: In severe cases, gum surgery may be necessary to clean the roots of teeth, reshape the gums, or regenerate lost bone. 3. Receding Gums: - Definition: Receding gums occur when the gum tissue pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. - Symptoms: Sensitivity to hot or cold, visible tooth roots, and a lengthening appearance of the teeth. - Treatment: Treatments for gum recession include gum graft surgery (where tissue is taken from another area in the mouth or from a donor source to cover exposed roots), and nonsurgical procedures such as pinhole surgical technique. 4. Periodontal Pockets: - Definition: When gum disease progresses, pockets form between the gums and teeth where bacteria can accumulate. These pockets are deeper than normal and can harbor plaque and tartar. - Treatment: Periodontal pocket treatment can include Scaling and Root planing (SRP), followed by regular cleanings. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depth. 5. Bone Loss: -Definition: As periodontitis progresses, it can lead to the loss of bone that supports the teeth, which can eventually cause teeth to loosen or fall out. - Treatment: In cases of bone loss, bone grafting procedures can be done to regenerate lost bone and help restore the stability of the teeth. 6. Oral Pathologies: - Periodontists may also treat various oral mucosal conditions, including oral cancer, that can affect the gums and surrounding tissues. Common Periodontal Treatments: 1. Scaling and Root Planing: - A non-surgical procedure to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the tooth roots below the gum line. This helps to reduce infection and inflammation. 2. Gum Grafting: - A procedure to restore receded gums by taking tissue from another area in the mouth (usually the roof of the mouth) and attaching it to the affected gum area. This helps reduce sensitivity and improve the appearance of the gums. 3. Pocket Reduction Surgery: - If periodontal pockets are deep, this surgery is performed to clean the pockets and make it easier for the gums to reattach to the tooth. This can also involve reshaping the bone. 4. Laser Therapy: - Some periodontists use lasers to remove infected tissue and help reduce swelling and bleeding. Laser therapy can be a minimally invasive treatment option for certain types of gum disease. 5. Bone Grafting: - A procedure to replace lost bone that supports the teeth, often using synthetic bone material, donor bone, or the patient's own bone. This can help regenerate lost bone and improve the stability of the teeth. 6. Regenerative Procedures: - Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) or Guided bone regeneration (GBR): Techniques used to promote the growth of new bone and tissue in areas damaged by periodontal disease. 7. Dental Implants: - For patients with severe bone loss and tooth loss, dental implants may be placed to replace missing teeth. Periodontists may work in conjunction with oral surgeons to ensure proper implant placement and bone health. 8. Antibiotics and Antiseptics: - In some cases, oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed to help control bacterial infections in the gums. Prevention and Maintenance: - Regular Dental Checkups (Every 3 to 6 months/, Good Oral Hygiene, Healthy Lifestyle

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