Periodontology is the main branch of dentistry that deals with the tissues surrounding the teeth, inflammatory diseases, and their treatment.
Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease characterized by the destruction of the tooth-supporting tissues, including the periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. In this condition, gum inflammation progresses to the alveolar bone (jawbone). The primary cause of periodontitis is bacterial plaque, which can be treated mechanically. However, genetic, environmental, and systemic factors may also contribute to the disease. Systemic factors include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, epilepsy, Down syndrome, AIDS, and blood disorders.
The first sign of periodontal diseases, which are common in society, is bleeding gums. The gums appear red, swollen, and shiny. These symptoms are often accompanied by bad breath, itching sensations in the gums, a feeling of bleeding, and tooth sensitivity. Periodontal diseases can affect individuals of all ages, from childhood to old age, with varying degrees of severity. In many cases, the disease progresses silently without causing pain, leading to delayed diagnosis.
By the time a patient notices symptoms, healthy, cavity-free teeth may become loose and lost due to damage in the supporting tissues.
Treatment Methods
The primary goal of periodontal treatment is to preserve teeth that may appear hopelessly unhealthy. The treatment methods vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. The basic treatment approaches include:
- Oral hygiene education
- Scaling (removal of tartar and plaque)
- Root surface debridement and smoothing
- Regenerative, reconstructive, and mucogingival surgeries
Additionally, periodontal treatment covers gum aesthetics for individuals with a high smile line (gummy smile). The type and severity of the disease, the patient's habits and cooperation with the dentist, as well as the standard of oral hygiene, directly influence treatment planning and success.
Periodontal treatment, when performed with early diagnosis and appropriate interventions, provides definitive results and ensures the highest level of patient satisfaction. It is important to remember that no restorative dental treatment can be applied to teeth that are not periodontally healthy.
