Periodontics

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats conditions and diseases of the teeth's supporting structures, especially the gums. Periodontists commonly treat severe cases of oral inflammation, including gum disease.

Periodontic Specialties

Periodontics typically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. Gum disease is a broad term that encompasses several different conditions. Periodontists treat different phases of gum disease, including:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease that causes the gums to swell, redden, and bleed easily due to inflammation. Gingivitis often results from a buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth caused by poor hygiene. It may also be a side effect of certain drugs or infections, or poor nutrition. Patients do not usually experience pain or discomfort, but should seek prompt treatment when symptoms arise because of potential complications.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis often develops as a result of untreated gingivitis. If plaque spreads below the gum line, it can create toxins that may chronically inflame the gums and bone, eventually destroying them. Periodontitis can lead to the formation of pockets that are susceptible to frequent infections, and can continue to destroy the gums and bone. There are several types of periodontitis, some of which include:

Aggressive periodontitis

This condition occurs most often in healthy patients who have a sudden onset of the disease, and experience rapid bone destruction and pocket formation.

Chronic periodontitis

Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of the disease. It results in progressive detachment and bone loss, gradually causing pocket formation and gum recession.

Periodontitis from systemic diseases

Periodontitis sometimes develops as a side effect of other conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease and diabetes. These cases usually begin at a young age.

Necrotizing periodontal disease

This condition is an infection caused by necrosis of the supporting structures within the teeth, and commonly affects people with other systemic conditions.

Periodontic Treatment

Periodontists perform different procedures and, at times, surgery, to treat different conditions within the mouth and gums. Procedures that a periodontist may perform include:

Scaling and Root Planing

This is a deep-cleaning method that removes bacteria from below the gum line and the tooth root. A local anesthetic may be used to numb the gums and the roots of the teeth.

Root Surface Debridement

This is a procedure to remove damaged tissue. Debridement may be performed using ultrasonic instruments or hand tools.

Flap Surgery

This is a procedure that lifts away gum tissue so that it can be cleaned underneath. It is often performed when gum disease cannot be cured by antibiotics, or by root planing and scaling.

Gum or Bone Grafts

Gum or bone grafts may be performed to help regenerate bone or gum tissue that has been damaged or lost due to periodontitis.

Dental Implants

When patients lose teeth as a result of periodontal disease or other reasons, they may choose dental implants to restore the missing teeth. Dental implants are a major part of periodontics because they are fused to the bone within the gums. Implants act as a natural root for replacement structures, and require the same care and prevention against periodontal disease as other teeth.

Many people are affected by periodontal disease and gum-related conditions. It is important to see a periodontist promptly if experiencing signs of gum disease to prevent more serious complications from occurring.

Additional Resources

• Mouth Healthy
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
• Medline Plus
• National Institutes of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
• WebMD