Periodontics is the field of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth. It also deals with the diseases and conditions that affect them. The tooth is supported by a system of structures that attaches it to the dental bone. The main functions of the periodontium are to allow the tooth to be attached to the bone and also provide a barrier for the underlying structures. When the periodontium is affected, the entire system can collapse.
Smoking, poor oral hygiene, poor nutrition, stress, or medications can cause inflammation of the gums. Inflammation is the start of any disease. Common symptoms include bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, tooth sensitivity, and puffy gums.
Oral Hygiene Maintenance
In dentistry, prevention is always better than cure. The mouth has millions of microorganisms, but they are opportunistic. This means if the food that we consume stays on the teeth, it is acted upon by bacteria, which produce acid and form soft deposits. If this is not removed, it may lead to reversible gum damage. Further delay may lead to permanent gum damage. For this, regular dental check-ups are necessary with teeth cleaning once every 6 months.
Gum Diseases (Gingivitis)
Irritation to the gum, medically known as gingivitis, is reversible damage to the gums. Professional teeth cleaning is done to prevent or treat the affected gums. This is carried out by mechanically removing soft deposits and hard deposits on the teeth. This is usually done before any minor or major surgery, tooth replacement, orthodontic treatment, root canal, etc., to reduce the irritation of the gums.
Disease of Supporting Structures of the Teeth
Damage to the supporting structures of teeth is irreversible and cannot be treated by teeth cleaning alone. It is usually treated by deep cleaning and simple surgical procedures. If left untreated, it may damage the bone support to the teeth, leading to loosening of the teeth and severe infection.
Regenerative Procedures
Regenerative procedures are mainly done when the bone supporting the teeth is destroyed. Grafts are generally required in cases of shortened gums, sensitivity due to root exposure, or aesthetic compromise. Regenerative procedures cannot be done in cases of extreme or last-stage periodontal disease. Membranes (filters), bone grafts, or tissue-stimulating proteins can be used to encourage the body's natural ability to regenerate bone and tissue.
Aesthetic Gum Surgeries
In recent times, the number of patients undergoing aesthetic surgeries has vastly increased. Frenectomy, crown lengthening, and gum contouring are some of the aesthetic gum surgeries done. These are advised when the patient has a gummy smile, when the length of the teeth is too short for a cap, or when the gums are irregularly shaped over the teeth.
Laser Surgeries
Lasers have been playing a major role in many areas of dentistry for the past three decades. Advanced lasers are a good choice for bacterial reduction and clotting. Laser reduces the chances of infection and promotes fast recovery. It also decreases swelling and scarring. In laser surgeries, sutures are not required and surgery time is reduced. At present, lasers are used in various gum surgeries.
Related Services
- Dental Implantology — healthy gums are essential for implant success
- Root Canal Treatment — treating infections that spread from gums to pulp
- Dentures & Prosthodontics — tooth replacement after gum disease-related loss