Periodontology is defined as the main branch of dentistry that deals with diseases occurring in the tissues surrounding the teeth, also known as the gums, and the bones that surround the teeth. Individuals who specialize in this field are called periodontists. All disorders occurring in the gums are examined in this field.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disorders?
Symptoms of gum disorders include bleeding gums, reddish-purplish color changes in the gums, gum recession, swelling of the gums, formation of abscesses, sensitivity, and bad breath. The causes of these conditions are as follows:
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- Bacterial plaque
- Smoking
- Systemic diseases
- Medications
- Stress
- Nutrition
- Excessive alcohol consumption
How is Gum Disease Treated?
In the treatment of gum disease, it is necessary to measure the pathological pockets that occur between the tooth and the gum with a special instrument. A treatment plan is made based on the depth of the pathological pockets. Deep pathological pockets provide an appropriate environment for the rapid progression of gum disease. Therefore, the goal of treatment is to make these pockets as shallow as possible. It is impossible for the patient to clean the microorganisms inside these pathological pockets through brushing and flossing. The treatment options we use to eliminate these pathological pockets are scaling, root planing, and soft tissue surgeries.
After the healing period, some of the things that should be done include avoiding smoking, maintaining good oral hygiene, regularly using dental floss and mouthwash, and taking prescribed medications regularly if recommended by the dentist.
