What is Periodontology?
Periodontology is a branch of dentistry that studies, diagnoses, and treats diseases of the gums and surrounding tissues. This specialty aims to protect and improve the health of the gums, jawbone, and other supporting tissues. Periodontologists are specialized in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum diseases.
When Are Periodontology Treatments Necessary?
Periodontology treatments are applied in the presence of gum diseases. These diseases usually begin due to the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar. The most common periodontal diseases include gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums and, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a condition where gum inflammation extends beyond the gums, affecting the jawbone.
How Are Periodontology Treatments Performed?
Periodontologists use various treatment methods depending on the patient's condition. Treatment options include:
Teeth Cleaning: Applied to remove dental plaque and tartar accumulation.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): Cleans plaque and tartar under the gums and smooths root surfaces.
Surgical Interventions: Surgical procedures may be applied for advanced periodontal diseases.
Bone Grafts: Bone grafts can be used to repair jawbone loss.
The treatment plan is determined according to the individual's needs and the stage of the disease.
What Are the Costs of Periodontology?
The costs of periodontology treatments vary depending on the type of treatment, the severity of the disease, and the procedures to be applied. Routine procedures like teeth cleaning and deep cleaning are generally more affordable. However, more complex treatments like surgical interventions and bone grafts can be more expensive. It is best to consult with a periodontologist for precise information about treatment costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontology
What is periodontology and what dental health issues does it focus on? Periodontology is a branch of dentistry that studies and treats the health of the gums and surrounding tissues. It deals with gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis and specializes in the prevention and treatment of these conditions.
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis? Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums and usually occurs due to dental plaque accumulation. If not treated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a condition where gum inflammation extends beyond the gums, affecting the jawbone.
What are the treatment methods for periodontology? Periodontologists use various treatment methods depending on the patient's condition, such as teeth cleaning, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), surgical interventions, and bone grafts.
How is periodontal health related to overall health? Research shows that periodontal diseases may be related to overall health. Periodontal health has been linked to diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other systemic disorders.
How is periodontology treatment planned and how long can it take? The treatment plan is determined according to the individual's needs and the stage of the disease. The duration of treatment can vary depending on the patient's condition and the treatment methods used. Periodontology treatment usually requires a series of appointments.
