PERIODONTOLOGY

Periodontology is the area of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth: the gums, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.

It may also address the aesthetic appearance of the smile when the shape, position or dimensions of the gums are involved, depending on the clinical assessment.

What are periodontal diseases?

Periodontal diseases are inflammatory conditions affecting the gums and the structures that support the teeth. Their most common forms are gingivitis and periodontitis.

The accumulation of bacterial plaque along the gum line is one of the main factors involved in their development. Disease progression may also be influenced by smoking, diabetes, individual susceptibility and oral hygiene.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the initial form of periodontal disease. It affects the gums without causing loss of the bone supporting the teeth.

• Common signs include:
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing;
• Red or swollen gums;
• Gum tenderness;
• Persistent bad breath.

When identified and treated at an early stage, gingivitis can generally be reversed through plaque removal, professional oral hygiene and appropriate home care.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a chronic, multifactorial inflammatory disease affecting the tissues that support the teeth. It is associated with the loss of periodontal attachment and alveolar bone and may progressively compromise tooth stability.

• In addition to bleeding and gum inflammation, it may cause:
• Gum recession;
• Teeth that appear longer;
• Gaps developing between the teeth;
• Loose teeth;
• Persistent bad breath;
• Discomfort or difficulty when chewing;
• Changes in tooth position;
• Tooth loss in advanced cases.

The loss of bone and periodontal attachment caused by periodontitis does not reverse spontaneously. However, treatment can control inflammation, stop or reduce disease progression and preserve the teeth whenever clinically possible.

Periodontal diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis may include an examination of the gums, measurement of the spaces between the gums and teeth, an assessment of tooth mobility and X-rays to examine bone levels.

• Treatment is determined by the severity and extent of the disease and may include:
• Personalised oral-hygiene guidance;
• Professional removal of bacterial plaque and calculus;
• Instrumentation of the root surfaces;
• Management of risk factors such as smoking or diabetes;
• Periodontal surgery, when clinically indicated;
• Regular maintenance appointments.

Antibiotics are not required in most cases and should only be used in specific situations following a clinical assessment.

Periodontal maintenance

Once periodontitis has been brought under control, ongoing care is required. Maintenance appointments allow the gums to be assessed, new bacterial deposits to be removed and possible signs of disease recurrence to be identified at an early stage.

The frequency of these appointments is determined according to each patient’s individual risk and periodontal condition.

If you experience bleeding gums, gum recession or loose teeth, book a Periodontology assessment at Wave Dental in Coimbra, Juncal or Valado dos Frades, in the municipality of Nazaré.