“Periodontics” refers to the dental department that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease. These experts have completed additional years of dental training and specialize in maintaining the function, health, and aesthetics of the jawbone and tissues.
Researches believe gum disease may be potentially linked to atherosclerosis, heart disease, strokes, premature births, diabetes and respiratory disease.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Bacteria in dental plaque cause periodontal disease. The term “plaque” refers to the sticky substance that forms on your teeth. The immune system’s cells begin to release substances in effort to get rid of the bacteria. This leads to inflamed and damaged gums, the periodontal ligament, or the alveolar bone. This also causes gums to bleed and swell.
Implications of Periodontal Disease
Localized gum recession: This infection begins in one area, but can potentially spread and lead to moderate/advanced gum disease. Over brushing with a hard bristle brush or a mispositioned tooth may cause localized gum recession.
Moderate/advanced gum disease: This arises when the gums are bleeding, swollen or red around the teeth. The jawbone will also begin to recede during moderate/advanced gum disease.
Before crown lengthening: The periodontist may provide more tooth exposure by removing surrounding soft tissue, in effort to lengthen the crown of the tooth.
Ridge augmentation: Frequently called “recontouring,” this procedure may be required to correct an uneven gum line.
How to prevent Periodontal Disease?
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Visit your dentist often
- Brush and floss daily
- Lessen smoking and tobacco use
- Correct misaligned or crowded teeth