Periodontology
What is periodontology?
Periodontology is the specialty that deals with periodontal pathology, the tissues that surround the teeth (gums and bones), with the most characteristic examples being gingivitis and periodontitis.
What causes these diseases?
These are diseases of purely infectious nature with their only cause being the microorganisms that we all have in our mouth. When our oral hygiene is poor due to reduced frequency and/or incorrect brushing technique, food residues remain in contact with our teeth and gums. There, microorganisms from the oral cavity are added and dental plaque is formed, which as it is not removed hardens and turns into tartar (calculus). The body’s first defensive reaction is gum irritation which appears red and bleeds easily on contact or brushing. Then we talk about gingivitis. At a later stage, if gingivitis is not treated, the infectious agent penetrates below the gums. There the bone that holds the tooth is affected, resulting in reduced dental support and ultimately leading to tooth loss.
What are the most characteristic symptoms?
The gums are slightly swollen, with a darker color than normal and bleed more easily when brushing. There is an itching sensation and sometimes mild pain that differs from dental pain. In the periodontitis stage, tooth mobility increases and in some cases small shifts are observed.
A family member has periodontitis. Is there a hereditary issue?
Although the cause of periodontitis is singular, there are numerous secondary factors that do not cause it but aggravate it. Some of these are heredity, smoking, stress of daily life, taking certain medications, hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy), etc. However, if our oral hygiene is proper and we visit our dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, there is no fear from hereditary or other factors. Exceptions are few and relate to general health conditions.
How are periodontal diseases treated?
In simple terms, removal of the causative agent is needed, namely plaque and tartar. Depending on the severity of the condition, this ranges from a simple cleaning in one session to periodontal scaling under local anesthesia in multiple visits. Also, great help in our therapeutic effort is the reduction of some aggravating factors, such as smoking. However, greater importance should be given to oral hygiene instructions so that the patient can maintain the therapeutic result over time. Finally, a maintenance program is established (every 3, 6 or 12 months, depending on the case), during which a periodontal check-up and cleaning is performed.
Periodontal diseases and general health. Is there a correlation?
Apart from maintaining the support of our teeth, treatment of periodontal diseases is also necessary for our general health. According to scientific studies, periodontitis is an aggravating factor for the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in vessels, which can lead to cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks and strokes. Diabetic patients with periodontitis regulate their blood sugar with more difficulty, while after treatment they have great benefit. Many studies have also focused on the relationship of periodontitis with pregnancy where there is an increased probability of premature and low birth weight babies.
