Periodontics

Periodontics is the study of normal and diseased tissue, system deployment, and the teeth´s suport. The word Periodontics means "perio" = around and "dontics" = teeth. Periodontics involves the gum tissue, periodontal ligament, root cementum and alveolar bone.

The gums are the tissue that lines the bone supporting the teeth. Because of poor hygiene, smoking, stress, immune deficiency and poor eating habits, the gums can be weak and more susceptible to infections caused by bacteria.

The periodontal ligament is composed of collagen fibers that connect teeth to the alveolar bone. It is formed by Sharpey fibers. The periodontal ligament communicates through vascular channels with the marrow spaces of their own alveolar bone.

The radicular cementum is a tissue covering the root of the tooth. It has no blood vessels, lymphatics, and innervation, but remains in continuous deposition. The alveolar bone is formed with part of the mandible and maxillary that supports the teeth.

Its main function is to distribute and absorb the forces generated by chewing and other dental contacts. Periodontics is the specialty that deals with periodontitis, studying the gum and soft tissues of the mouth. The aim of treatment is to stabilize and prevent the loss of teeth. Periodontics work to ensure the patient maintains as healthy mouth.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease or periodontitis is a bacterial infection that affects the insertion of fibers (gums) and affects the supporting bone that keeps your teeth aligned in the mouth, giving harmony to your smile.

Why make an examination of periodontitis?

To prevent serious diseases a periodontal exam is the easiest way to determine oral health. Upon examination, a micro probe is inserted between the teeth and gums to check your periodontal health.

Thus it is possible to accurately diagnose the need for early treatment of periodontal disease and thus can avoid future problems like the loss of teeth or the need for implants. This simple test can help you keep your teeth throughout your life.

Who needs this test?

All people need periodontal examinations. This exam is one way to prevent more serious problems such as infections and loss of teeth. If you have never done this type of examination, talk to your dentist and search for it. Prevention is better than a cure.

How is it treatment?

First, the periodontist will control the infection in order to remove plaque. Plaque removal can be done by scraping, removal of tartar (plaque), granulation and toxins from the gums. The root of the tooth will be analyzed to eliminate points of accumulation of germs, allowing the gum to become more attached to the tooth.

Yet another alternative is the use of a mouthwash containing a chlorhexidine. In some cases, dentists may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate the causes of periodontitis.

It´s necessary to perform a periodontal surgery?

Periodontal surgery may be necessary if scaling and scraping do not control the infection, or if it is very advanced and include loss of bone around the teeth. Periodontal surgery is performed under local anesthesia without causing pain to the patient. " Periodontal surgery is performed by lifting up the gums, removing the tartar and suturing it back in place."

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