Periodontology is a branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the soft and hard tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It focuses on preserving structures such as the jawbone, to which the teeth are anchored, and the periodontal ligament (connective tissue) that supports the teeth. By treating diseases in these areas, periodontology aims to improve overall oral health. Periodontal diseases are one of the leading causes of tooth loss worldwide and can lead to significant health issues if not diagnosed and treated early.

Scope and Role of Periodontology

Periodontology involves the treatment of diseases related to the soft tissues in the mouth, restoring the health of the gums, performing gingival aesthetic surgeries, treating conditions such as bone loss, and addressing issues like tooth looseness. Moreover, periodontology is not limited to disease treatment; it also includes measures to maintain the health of the teeth and gums after treatment. Periodontal therapy aims to stop the progression of gum diseases and ensure their reversal.

Periodontal Diseases and Symptoms

Periodontal diseases lead to inflammation in the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. These diseases can cause significant health issues that may result in tooth loss. Globally, approximately 70% of tooth loss in adults occurs due to periodontal diseases.

Periodontal diseases can generally be categorized into two main types:

1. Gingivitis: This is a disease that only affects the gums, with no damage to the jawbone. Gingivitis causes bleeding, swelling, and redness in the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to bone loss and gum recession.
2. Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress toward periodontitis, affecting the gums and the underlying bone. Periodontitis leads to bone loss in the jaw and damages the structures supporting the teeth. If left untreated, this condition can cause teeth to lose their attachment, loosen, and eventually fall out.

Failure to treat these diseases not only threatens oral health but also negatively impacts general health. Studies have shown that periodontal diseases are associated with several systemic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses.

Diagnosis and Detection of Periodontal Diseases

The diagnosis of periodontal diseases involves methods such as intraoral examination and jaw X-rays. Periodontists evaluate symptoms like gum bleeding, gum growth, gum recession, and bone loss. Additionally, the patient's medical history is considered to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Based on the dentist's examination, the level of gum inflammation, presence of tartar, bone loss, and the condition of the gums are used to plan the treatment process.

Treatment Methods for Periodontal Diseases

If periodontal diseases are detected early, treatment can typically be carried out using simple and effective methods. The treatment process varies depending on the stage and severity of the disease.

1. Gingivitis Treatment: The primary step in gingivitis treatment is cleaning the teeth (scaling) and creating a personalized oral care plan to improve the patient's oral hygiene. During this process, the health of the gums is restored, and regular follow-up visits ensure recovery.
2. Periodontitis Treatment: In the case of periodontitis, tooth cleaning alone is insufficient. This disease causes bone loss and the formation of pockets beneath the gums. These pockets fill with food and bacteria, impairing gum health. To treat this, these pockets must be cleaned. This is typically done through scaling and root planing in a painless treatment procedure. Scaling and root planning are often completed in several sessions.
3. Advanced Treatment: If tooth loss is severe, bone grafting and bone-building medications may be used to prevent further bone loss and support the teeth. This treatment may require a series of surgical interventions to preserve and restore the patient's teeth.

Prevention of Periodontal Diseases

Preventing periodontal diseases is possible with proper oral hygiene. Regularly brushing teeth, using dental floss, visiting the dentist, and maintaining a healthy diet are essential steps to prevent periodontal diseases. Additionally, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing periodontal diseases.