Periodontology
What is periodontology, and when should you see a periodontist?
Periodontology is a branch of dentistry that specializes in maintaining and treating the health of the tissues surrounding the teeth, such as the gums, bones, periodontal ligaments, and cementum. This field is crucial for ensuring the long-term stability of teeth, as the condition of the periodontium directly affects the health and longevity of teeth. The primary goal of periodontology is to detect, treat, and prevent periodontal diseases like gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (gum disease), and to prevent potential complications.
Periodontal treatments not only bring about aesthetic improvements but also have a significant impact on overall health. They play an essential role in reducing the risk of severe systemic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, or even respiratory infections. Gum diseases can lead to tooth loss and have detrimental effects on the entire body. At Újbuda Medical Center, located in Budapest’s 11th district, experienced periodontists help patients preserve and restore their oral health.
When should you see a periodontist?
It’s necessary to consult a periodontist when the first signs of periodontal issues appear. These symptoms include persistent gum bleeding, swelling and redness of the gums, gum recession, bad breath, or loosened and moving teeth. These signs are usually indicative of early-stage gum disease, which, if left untreated, can worsen and ultimately lead to tooth loss. Periodontal interventions at this stage can effectively halt the progression of the disease and prevent tooth loss.
Periodontists are specialists trained to handle more advanced cases of gum disease, especially when inflammation has spread to the bone structures supporting the teeth. A wide range of treatments is available, including professional tartar removal, deep pocket cleaning, and, if necessary, surgical interventions. These procedures not only help preserve the teeth but also contribute to reducing the risk of systemic diseases.
Symptoms and treatment of periodontal diseases
Periodontal diseases, such as periodontitis, can have severe consequences. Early symptoms include gum bleeding, often noticed when brushing or flossing. Additional warning signs include gum swelling, redness, and pain. As the disease progresses, the teeth may become loose, shift, or even fall out. These symptoms can lead not only to tooth loss but also to damage to the jawbone.
The aim of periodontal treatment is to effectively manage gum diseases and prevent them from worsening. The first step is often an ultrasonic tartar removal, which eliminates the tartar deposits on the teeth and gums. This procedure reduces inflammation and prepares the gums for further treatments. Next may come subgingival curettage, where special tools are used to remove inflamed tissues and infected cementum from beneath the gum line, cleaning the roots of the teeth. This helps reduce the depth of pockets and improves gum health.
In more severe cases, where the periodontal pockets are deeper, open curettage may be required. This procedure gives the dentist greater access to thoroughly clean deeper areas, allowing for root smoothing and, if necessary, the application of bone graft materials. These materials help restore bone tissue and support tooth stability.
Tooth decay and crown lengthening
In addition to treating gum diseases, periodontology also addresses severe cases of tooth decay. When the damage extends deep below the gum line, modern dental techniques allow for tooth preservation instead of extraction. This process, known as crown lengthening, involves extending the crown to ensure the tooth can be restored securely and safely.
There are two primary methods for crown lengthening. One involves short-term orthodontics, where the affected tooth is raised with the support of adjacent teeth, creating optimal conditions for restoration. The other method is a minor surgical procedure, where the gums are carefully lowered to lengthen the crown, improving both the aesthetics and functionality of the tooth. Both approaches aim to preserve the tooth's integrity and function while minimizing patient discomfort.
Splinting teeth
To address tooth mobility, one effective periodontal solution is splinting. This method stabilizes and secures loose teeth, preventing further movement and eventual tooth loss. The splinting process involves connecting the loose teeth into a fixed unit, typically using a thin metal or plastic splint. This discreet splint ensures that the teeth remain stable, minimizing their movement.
Splinting not only serves to stabilize loose teeth but also supports gum and bone healing, particularly after periodontal treatment. However, after splinting, extra care with oral hygiene is essential, as the areas between the stabilized teeth can be more challenging to clean, potentially leading to additional plaque buildup.
Preventing oral infections
Oral infections associated with periodontal diseases can be effectively prevented by maintaining thorough and regular oral hygiene. Daily brushing, regular flossing, and using mouthwash all contribute to preserving oral health.
However, if an infection develops, immediate and targeted treatment is necessary. The treatment type depends on the severity of the infection; antibiotic therapy is often used, supplemented by local antiseptic rinses and treatments. These local treatments act directly at the source of the infection, promoting faster healing.
Book an appointment with our experienced periodontists at Újbuda Medical Dental!
Don’t let periodontal diseases and other oral health issues affect your quality of life! Timely treatment and regular checkups are crucial to preventing the worsening of problems. At Újbuda Medical Dental in Budapest’s 11th district, we recommend visiting for dental checkups several times a year to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Book an appointment with our experienced periodontists today to prevent more serious complications and preserve your oral health!
