Introduction to Periodontology

Introduction to Periodontology

• Periodontology is the branch of dentistry focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases affecting the supporting structures of teeth.
• These structures include the gums (gingiva), periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone.
• Periodontitis is the most common and serious periodontal disease.
• Gum disease, encompassing gingivitis and periodontitis, is a major cause of adult tooth loss.

Etiology of Periodontal Diseases

• Periodontal diseases are mainly caused by pathogenic bacteria.
• These bacteria colonize the gingival crevice and surrounding tissues.
• Plaque, a bacterial biofilm, is key in initiating and advancing gum disease.
• Dental calculus (tartar) forms when plaque mineralizes, further contributing to periodontal diseases.
• Other factors contributing: poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetic predisposition, systemic diseases, certain medications, stress, and hormonal changes.

Clinical Manifestations of Periodontal Diseases

• Gingivitis: Gum inflammation, characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding. It's reversible with timely treatment.
• Periodontitis: Severe gum disease, inflaming supporting structures (periodontal ligament and alveolar bone). Progressive bone loss, periodontal pockets, and potential tooth loss result. It's irreversible.
• Periodontal Pocket Formation: Plaque and tartar irritate tissues, separating them to create a periodontal pocket.
• Tooth Mobility: Supporting structures' destruction leads to teeth becoming mobile.
• Bone Loss: Alveolar bone progressively resorbs, reducing tooth support.

Diagnosis of Periodontal Diseases

• Patient History: Gathering information on oral hygiene, medical history, and risk factors.
• Clinical Examination: Visual gum inspection, pocket depth probing, and tooth mobility assessment.
• Radiographic Imaging: X-rays to evaluate alveolar bone loss and disease extent.
• Periodontal Charting: Recording pocket depths, attachment levels, and bleeding on probing (BOP) at various tooth sites.

Treatment of Periodontal Diseases

• Non-surgical Treatments: Scaling and root planing (SRP) to remove plaque and calculus, plus improved oral hygiene instructions.
• Surgical Treatments: Severe periodontitis cases may require flap surgery (accessing and cleaning deep pockets), bone grafting (regenerating lost bone), or resective surgery (reshaping gum tissue).
• Antimicrobial Therapy: Using antibiotics, potentially combined with other therapies, to target specific bacterial pathogens.
• Patient Education: Crucial for treatment success, emphasizing meticulous oral hygiene and reinforcing home care instructions.

Prevention of Periodontal Diseases

• Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing to remove plaque and food debris are essential. Professional dental care (checkups and cleanings) is important.
• Addressing Risk Factors: Quitting smoking, managing systemic diseases, and managing stress can reduce the risk.
• Early Detection and Treatment: Addressing gum disease symptoms early prevents later, more extensive, treatments.
• Diet: A balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and nutrients supports overall health and immune function, reducing periodontal disease vulnerability.

This quiz covers the fundamentals of periodontology, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases. Key topics include the supporting structures of teeth, common diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, and the role of pathogenic bacteria in these conditions. Test your understanding of the etiology and progression of gum diseases.