Periodontology is the discipline dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the underlying gum tissue and bone.
These diseases are gingivitis and periodontitis. Commonly, we speak of "loosening of the teeth" because they lead to the loss of teeth.
The periodontist prevents, diagnoses and treats gingivitis and periodontitis, as well as their after-effects. It also ensures the replacement of missing teeth by bone grafting and implant surgery techniques. He also treats gingival recessions with periodontal root-covering plastic surgery techniques.
It is important not to wait for the first clinical signs (pain, bleeding, etc.). The infection can spread around the teeth and deep down for years without any visible signs.
The disease can be diagnosed with a dental plaque sample taken under a microscope.
- What is Periodontal disease?
Gingivitis is the first stage: bacteria colonize the gum-tooth junction, and trigger inflammation of the gum. The swelling gums become red and painful, peel away from the tooth and this is the door open to the penetration of tartar under the gum; It's a vicious cycle that sets in. If left untreated, gingivitis leads to periodontitis.
In Periodontitis begins the destruction of the jawbone and the fibers that anchor the teeth; Periodontal pockets then form in which bacteria accumulate, leading to loosening of the teeth and their loss. In some situations, a purulent discharge may appear.
- The signs that should alert:
Bleeding on brushing or spontaneous, swollen, sensitive, darker gums.
Teeth that appear longer, gum that retracts, tooth mobility or displacement, bad breath, diffuse sensation of discomfort or pain.
- To confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the disease, the periodontist will:
- Perform a complete clinical examination of the mouth,
- Take an x-ray to visualize the bone loss,
- Measure the depth of the periodontal pockets using a thin probe,
- Visualize the germs present by a sample in the pocket and study it instantaneously using a microscope.
If left untreated, bacteria will continue to multiply and secrete toxins that will cause inflammation and progressive destruction of the bone.
When there is no longer enough bone to hold the teeth in place, they become mobile. In the advanced stage, abscesses may appear, the teeth are too loose to stay on the arch and will need to be extracted. Importantly, periodontal disease can have an effect on the general health of the patient.
