Does the periodontal study hurt?

No, no dental procedure is painful thanks to local anesthesia. However, it is normal for the patient to feel some discomfort after treatment as the gums may get inflamed and in some cases, bleeding may occur.

How is a periodontal examination with a digital probe done?

The periodontal examination with a digital probe is carried out in the same way as the periodontal examination with a manual millimeter probe, the only difference is that the digital probe has measurement software that allows obtaining a more accurate value when measuring the depth of the periodontal pockets.

Why do teeth get loose when there is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is the chronic inflammation of the insertion tissues of the teeth (periodontium), when inflamed for a prolonged period, the detachment of the teeth occurs due to the destruction and loss of the supporting tissue, this produces dental mobility and even tooth loss if not treated early.

Periodontics 🦷: Caring for Your Gums and Supporting Structures

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the health of the gums and other supporting structures around the teeth.

This field addresses issues like gum disease, tooth loss, and the placement of dental implants. 🏥🦷

Table of content

🧠 What Is Periodontics?

Periodontics deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in this field, receiving additional training beyond dental school. 🎓🦷

⚠️ Common Periodontal Issues

Some common periodontal problems include:

Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing. 🩸
Periodontitis: A more severe form of gum disease that can lead to gum recession, pockets between teeth and gums, and tooth mobility. 😟
Gum Recession: When the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, exposing more of the tooth or its root. 😬
Tooth Loss: Advanced periodontal disease can result in the loss of teeth due to damage to the supporting bone and tissues. 🦷❌

🛠️ Treatment Options

Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition:

Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning procedures to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. 🧼
- Antibiotics: Medications to control bacterial infection. 💊
Surgical Treatments:
- Flap Surgery: Lifting the gums to remove tartar deposits and reducing pocket depths. 🔪
- Bone and Tissue Grafts: Procedures to regenerate lost bone and tissue. 🦴
- Crown Lengthening: Reshaping the gum and bone to expose more of a tooth. 🦷

🧼 Aftercare and Recovery

Post-treatment care is crucial for healing:

Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup. 🪥🧴
Follow-Up Appointments: Attend scheduled visits to monitor healing and prevent recurrence. 📅
Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications. 🚭

🛡️ Prevention Tips

Preventing periodontal issues involves:

Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams. 🦷👩‍⚕️
Proper Brushing and Flossing: Use fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque. 🪥
Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet to support gum health. 🍎🥦
Avoid Tobacco Use: Tobacco products can contribute to gum disease. 🚭

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics

1. What are the early signs of gum disease?
🦷 Early indicators include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially while brushing or flossing.
If you notice these signs, it’s time to schedule a visit with a periodontist!

2. How can I prevent periodontal disease?
🪥 Prevention starts with good oral hygiene:

Brush twice a day 🪥
Floss daily 🧵
Use an antibacterial mouthwash 🧴
Get regular dental cleanings 🧑‍⚕️

3. Does periodontal treatment hurt?
💉 Most procedures are done with local anesthesia, so there’s minimal pain.
You might feel mild swelling or tenderness afterward, but it usually subsides in a few days.

4. Can periodontitis cause tooth loss?
😬 Yes, advanced periodontitis can damage the bone and gum tissue, potentially leading to tooth loss if not treated promptly.

5. What is a gum graft, and when is it necessary?
🌱 A gum graft is a surgical solution for receding gums.
It’s needed when tooth roots become exposed, which can cause sensitivity and increase the risk of decay.

✅ Conclusion

Periodontics plays a vital role in maintaining oral health by focusing on the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.

Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices are essential in preventing and managing periodontal diseases.

Consulting with a periodontist can provide specialized care to address complex dental issues and improve overall oral health. 🦷💪

References

Gasner NS, Schure RS. Periodontal Disease. [Updated 2025 May 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554590/
Deng, Y., Liang, Y., & Liu, X. (2022). Biomaterials for Periodontal Regeneration. Dental Clinics of North America, 66(4), 659-672. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cden.2022.05.011
Ramanauskaite, E., Moraschini, V., Machiulskiene, V., & Sculean, A. (2021). Clinical efficacy of single and multiple applications of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in periodontal maintenance: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, 36, 102435. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pdpdt.2021.102435