Periodontics
Study, prevention and treatment of pathologies that affect the tissues that protect, surround and support the teeth.
It is responsible for the study, prevention, and treatment of pathologies that affect the tissues that protect, surround, and support the teeth: gums, alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and root cementum.
Periodontal disease is caused, among other factors, by the accumulation of bacteria.If left untreated, it can gradually progress, potentially leading to premature tooth loss.
Types of periodontal problems
Gingivitis
It is caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque and is the initial stage of periodontal disease. If not removed properly, it turns into tartar, which irritates and inflames the gums.
The most common symptoms are redness of the area and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is a reversible condition, but if not treated properly, it can progress and develop into periodontitis.
Periodontitis
The leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It affects between 15% and 20% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44, according to the World Health Organization, and is a serious and irreversible periodontal disease.
This pathology, unlike gingivitis, is characterized by the loss of the tissues that support the tooth, that is, the bone and gum.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risk factors for periodontal disease?
What is the treatment for periodontal disease?
It varies depending on the progression of the disease. The dentist will perform an evaluation and prescribe the most appropriate treatment plan. If the disease is in its early stages, it is necessary to eliminate accumulated bacteria through professional prophylaxis. In the case of periodontitis, treatment is usually organized in two phases. In the basic phase, periodontal bacteria are eliminated through scaling and root planing. In more severe cases, accessing deep periodontal pockets through periodontal surgery will be considered. Sometimes, bone regeneration techniques are applied in these phases. If the gums are severely receding, periodontal surgery with grafts can be performed to cover the part lost due to gum deterioration.