This specialty of Dentistry treats and diagnoses gum problems such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
These diseases are consequences of poor oral hygiene (accumulation of bacteria between the gum and the tooth) and also of genetic aspects.
The evolution of gingivitis leads to periodontitis, which affects the structures responsible for fixing the teeth in the jaws, leading to progressive tooth loss.
Gingivitis
Superficial inflammation of the gums, with bleeding and redness, does not cause pain. It is treatable and recovery is complete. There is no loss of gum tissue or bone. It mainly results from poor oral hygiene.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a deep inflammation of the gums, with different levels of tissue destruction. In mild cases there is a picture of inflammation and gingival bleeding with a slight destruction of the initial connection of the gingiva to the tooth. In moderate cases, the patient has pockets (increase in normal gingival depth) and some bone loss. In advanced cases there are deep pockets, marked bone loss and a lot of tooth mobility leading to total tooth loss. The disease does not cause pain.
It is necessary to follow up with a dentist specialized in periodontology.
Causes
The most common cause of periodontitis is the progressive accumulation of bacteria inside the gingiva, with calcification of the same and an increasing destruction of subgingival tissues (bone and ligaments of the tooth). Genetic aspects can also contribute to a worsening of periodontal disease.
Treatment
The recommended treatment should be performed by a dentist specialized in periodontology. After being evaluated and diagnosed, the doctor proceeds with the most appropriate treatment. The treatment is minimally invasive, done with local anesthesia and in phases. Includes scaling, curettage and root planing. The good results of the treatment make it possible to significantly increase the longevity of the dentition. Regular monitoring by the Dentist and periodic maintenance is necessary, which can vary between 1 to 6 months.