What is periodontics?
Periodontology is the branch of science that deals with the health of the tissues supporting the teeth (such as gums and jawbone), as well as their diseases and treatments.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
- Red, swollen gums
- Spontaneous or bleeding during brushing
- Bad breath
- A bad taste in the mouth
- Tooth movement or shifting
- Opening of spaces between teeth and rotation (twisting of teeth)
- Exposure of the root surface
- Development of hot-cold sensitivity
Factors that Cause and Affect Gum Disease
- The primary factor is bacterial plaque (dental plaque).
- Tobacco smoking
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes (Pregnancy)
- Stress
- Genetic factors
- Poor nutrition
- Medication use
- Improper dental restorations
Treatment of Gum Diseases
- Ensuring oral hygiene
- Removal of soft and hard deposits (dental calculus) that cause gum disease
- Non-surgical treatments and surgical treatments
What should be done to prevent gum diseases?
- Brushing teeth twice a day
- Cleaning between the teeth (dental floss, toothpicks, interdental brushes)
- Brushing the surface of the tongue
- Regular dental check-ups
Individuals who may be at risk include:
- Smokers
- Individuals with diabetes
- Pregnant women
- Children in puberty
- Individuals with a family history of early tooth loss
Don't forget
- Bleeding is the most significant symptom of gum disease.
- Brush your teeth twice a day and clean between your teeth.
- Be sure to brush the surface of your tongue.
- Recurrent gum abscesses may indicate diabetes.
- Gum diseases can lead to preterm births and low birth weight babies.
- Gum diseases may cause cardiovascular diseases.
- There is a connection between gum diseases and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
- During pregnancy, make sure to have dental hygiene check-ups.
- Smoking exacerbates gum diseases and masks the symptoms.
- Oral and dental health-related diseases are preventable.
- Have regular dental check-ups.
