Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth. Improper oral hygiene can lead to serious infection resulting in tooth loss. Bacteria in dental plaque can cause gum inflammation and, worse, the inflammation of the bone that supports the teeth. Adequate treatment is very important for keeping our teeth healthy and to prevent periodontal disease.
Periodontal diseases are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, characterised by an inflammatory red colour, swelling, pain and frequent bleeding while brushing the teeth. Although gums are sensitive, teeth are still firm in the bone. At this stage, of the disease there is no irreversible bone loss or other damage.
Gingivitis often leads to periodontitis, if it is not treated in a timely manner with appropriate methods. Bacteria that build up during the inflammation start to degrade the bones and the connective tissue of the tooth. The tooth no longer has the support it had before the inflammation and it becomes loose. Periodontal pockets occur, in which the bacteria further accumulate; the bacteria increasingly deepen the pockets and worsen the disease. The result is loose teeth that eventually fall out.
