Periodontology - Diamond Dental

What is
Periodontology?

Periodontology or periodontics is the specialty of dentistry that studies supporting structures of teeth, as well as diseases and conditions that affect them. The supporting tissues are known as the periodontium, which includes the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, cementum, and the periodontal ligament. A periodontist is a dentist that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants.

Periodontal disease is a condition that affects the supporting tissue of the mouth. There are two main stages of gum disease: gingivitis (the less severe condition, only affecting the gums) and periodontitis (where all the supporting structures are involved).

Although there are numerous signs and symptoms associated with periodontal disease, you may not realise you have the disease.We will check for signs of periodontal disease during your checkup.

The symptoms are gums that tend to bleed easily, especially when brushing, gums that are sensitive and turn red, detachment of the gums from the teeth creating spaces that are known as periodontal pockets, constant bad breath or bad taste in the mouth and loose teeth.

Periodontal disease can lead to permanent teeth loss, a change in the bite, or a change in the fit of partial dentures. Many older adults will loose more teeth as a result of periodontal disease than dental decay (caries).

Gentle high quality dental care.

What are the symptoms of
Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an ongoing infection in the gums, which can lead to bone and tooth loss. It can sometimes be silent, meaning there are no symptoms present. Some common signs of gum disease include:

Pain or sores in the mouth
Bleeding while brushing or flossing
Swollen, red, or tender gums
Loose or separating teeth
Gum recession
Bad breath
Bite changes
Pus between the gum and teeth
Tooth sensitivity

It’s important to understand that periodontal disease can lead to significant health problems when left untreated. Undergoing regular dental exams and routine dental cleanings help to identify periodontal disease early on. Gum disease can be reversed when it is caught in the gingivitis stage.

Who Should See A
Periodontist?

Some patients’ periodontal needs can be managed by the general dentist. However, as more and more patients are exhibiting signs of periodontal disease, coupled with research that suggests a relationship between periodontal disease and other chronic diseases of aging, periodontal treatment may necessitate a greater understanding and increased level of expertise by a trained specialist.

Patients who present with moderate or severe levels of periodontal disease, or patients with more complex cases, will be best managed by a partnership between the dentist and periodontist.