Periodontal Treatment
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the supporting structures of the teeth — mainly the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. It develops when untreated gingivitis (gum inflammation) progresses, leading to irreversible tissue and bone loss around teeth. This can cause gum recession, deep pockets, tooth mobility, and eventually tooth loss if not managed properly.
What causes periodontitis
- Plaque and tartar buildup — bacterial biofilm triggers inflammation.
- Smoking and tobacco use — major risk factor for progression.
- Systemic conditions — diabetes, hormonal changes, and immune disorders.
- Poor oral hygiene or nutrition — increases bacterial load.
- Genetic predisposition — some individuals are more susceptible.
What treatment involves with a periodontologist
A periodontologist (periodontist) is a dental specialist focusing on gum and bone health. Treatment typically follows a structured, staged approach:
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Comprehensive periodontal charting (probing depths, plaque & bleeding points, mobility).
- Radiographs to evaluate bone loss.
- Risk factor analysis (smoking, systemic health, oral hygiene).
- Oral hygiene review and instruction
- Initial (non-surgical) therapy
- Scaling and root planing — deep cleaning below the gumline to remove plaque and calculus. Usually under local anaesthetic.
- Antimicrobial therapy — local or systemic antibiotics if infection is severe.
- Oral hygiene instruction — tailored brushing and interdental cleaning techniques.
- Re-evaluation
- After healing, the periodontist reassesses pocket depths and inflammation.
- If disease persists, further treatment or surgical options are considered.
- Surgical therapy (if needed)
- Flap surgery — to access deep pockets and smooth bone defects.
- Regenerative procedures — bone grafts or guided tissue regeneration to rebuild lost support.
- Soft tissue grafts — to cover exposed roots or improve gum thickness.
- Maintenance phase
- Regular periodontal maintenance visits every 3–6 months.
- Ongoing monitoring to prevent recurrence.
Why specialist care matters
Periodontologists combine clinical treatment with systemic health management — coordinating with general dentists and sometimes physicians for conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Their goal is not only to stop disease progression but also to restore function and aesthetics through regenerative and reconstructive techniques.