What is Periodontology (Gum Diseases)?

Periodontology is a branch of dentistry that deals with the health, diseases and treatment of the gums and supporting tissues surrounding the teeth. Gum disease is one of the most common causes of tooth loss and can lead to damage to the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth. Therefore, periodontology is a comprehensive field that covers not only the gums but also structures such as the jawbone and tooth roots.

Gum disease usually starts with gingivitis (gingivitis) and can progress to more serious conditions such as periodontitis if not treated in time. Periodontitis is an infection that can cause tooth loss by damaging the supporting tissues of the teeth. Early diagnosis and regular dental check-ups are of great importance in the field of periodontology.

Periodontology is a specialty that evaluates and treats symptoms such as gum recession, bleeding, sensitivity, inflammation and bad breath. Today, thanks to advanced techniques and laser-assisted treatments, most periodontological problems can be effectively controlled.

Periodontology treatments are important both for aesthetic concerns and for the protection of general oral health. Healthy gums ensure the longevity of teeth and positively affect overall body health.

When Which Dental Problems Should I Make a Periodontology Appointment?

Gum diseases are usually insidious and can cause serious problems if not recognized at an early stage. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is recommended that you consult a periodontologist:

• Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, this may be one of the first signs of gingivitis. If it progresses, it can turn into gum recession and periodontitis.
• Gum recession and sensitivity: When gum recession occurs, tooth roots are exposed and sensitivity to cold, hot, sweet or sour foods increases. Gingival recession is a harbinger of advanced gum diseases that can cause tooth loss.
• Bad breath (Halitosis): Persistent and unpleasant bad breath can be a symptom of gum infections. Bad breath that does not go away despite paying attention to oral hygiene may indicate the progression of gum diseases.
• Swelling, Redness and Sensitivity in the Gums: If your gums are red, swollen or sensitive to touch, gingivitis may have started. If left untreated, this condition can progress to tooth loss.
• Wobbling or Spacing of Teeth: When periodontal diseases progress, the bone tissue that supports the teeth can be damaged. In this case, teeth may loosen, wobble or shift. Such symptoms indicate that you should make an urgent periodontology appointment.
• Gum Abscess and Inflammation: Gum infections can lead to abscesses over time. If there is swelling, discharge or persistent pain in the gums, you should be evaluated by a periodontist.
• Problems Around Dentures or Implants: People with dentures or implants may need periodontal treatment if there is redness, swelling or signs of infection in the surrounding tissues.

When gum diseases are not diagnosed and treated early, they can negatively affect not only oral health but also general health. To prevent tooth loss and have healthy gums, you should consult a periodontology specialist when you notice the above symptoms.

What is Periodontology?

Periodontology is a specialty branch of dentistry that deals with gum diseases and the health of the supporting tissues surrounding the teeth. This field deals with the gums, bone structures that support the teeth, periodontal ligaments (fibers that connect the tooth to the bone) and tooth roots. Periodontologists diagnose, treat and provide preventive measures for conditions such as gingivitis (gingivitis) and periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease.

Gum disease can cause serious problems that can lead to tooth loss over time. Periodontology is important not only for dental health but also for general health. Research shows that periodontal diseases can be associated with systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory infections.

Therefore, periodontology is an important specialty in terms of protecting not only oral and dental health but also general body health. If you have symptoms such as bleeding gums, swelling, bad odor or tooth loss, it is recommended that you consult a periodontologist.

What Does Periodontology Do?

Periodontology is a specialty of dentistry that maintains the health of the tissues surrounding the teeth and gums, diagnoses and treats diseases. Periodontologists (periodontologists) use various methods to prevent, diagnose and treat gum diseases. This field is not limited to the gums, but also covers the bone structures and connective tissues that support the teeth.

The main tasks of periodontology:

• Prevention of gum diseases
• Diagnosis of gum diseases
• Gum treatments and surgical applications
• Gingival and maxillofacial surgery
• Implant-supported treatments
• Treatment of tooth clenching (bruxism) and jaw problems

Periodontology not only maintains gum health, but also contributes to the overall maintenance of oral health by preventing tooth loss. Therefore, it is of utmost importance for individuals at risk of any gum disease or tooth loss to be regularly examined by a periodontologist.

How is Periodontology Diagnosed?

Periodontologists use a variety of clinical assessments and radiological imaging methods to diagnose gum disease. The diagnostic process begins with listening to the patient's complaints, followed by a detailed examination.

Patient History and Evaluation of Symptoms

The first step in the diagnostic process is to assess the symptoms and general health of the patient. The periodontologist looks for answers to the following questions:

• Are the gums bleeding?
• Is there swelling or redness of the gums?
• Is there a bad odor or bad taste in the mouth?
• Are the teeth loose, receding or sensitive?
• Has the patient had gum treatment before?

In addition, the patient's systemic diseases (such as diabetes, heart disease) and medication use are also evaluated and their possible relationship with gum disease is investigated.

Clinical Examination

The periodontologist examines the patient's gums in detail. During this examination, the following tests are performed:

• Gum bleeding test: Light pressure is applied to the gums to check for gingivitis.
• Gum recession assessment: It is checked whether the gums have receded and whether the roots are exposed.
• Tooth mobility test: It is assessed whether the teeth have moved and how much they are shaken.

Periodontal Pocket Depth Measurement (Probe Test)

One of the most important methods for diagnosing periodontal diseases is the pocket depth measurement using a periodontal probe. This test is done as follows:

• A special periodontal measuring instrument (probe) is placed under the gum line.
• The pocket depth between the gum and tooth is measured in millimeters.
• In healthy gums, this measurement is in the range of 1-3 mm.
• Depths of 4 mm and above are considered a sign of gum disease.
• Depths of 5 mm or more usually indicate an advanced stage of periodontitis.

X-ray and Imaging Methods

The use of X-rays in periodontology diagnosis is important to see bone loss and the progression of gum disease. Methods used:

• Panoramic X-ray: Shows the entire oral structure, identifying bone loss and the extent of gum disease.
• Periapical X-ray: Provides a detailed examination of specific teeth, especially the tooth root and surrounding bone tissue.
• Digital Tomography: It is used for three-dimensional imaging of bone loss and provides detailed diagnosis, especially in advanced cases.

Bacteriological and Genetic Tests

In some cases, specialized laboratory tests can be performed to identify the bacteria that cause gum disease. In addition, saliva testing may be performed to assess genetic predisposition.

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

As a result of all the evaluations, the patient may be diagnosed with one of the following conditions

• Gingivitis: Mild gingivitis, usually reversible and easily treatable.
• Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease that can lead to bone loss.
• Advanced Periodontal Disease: Advanced cases of gum and bone loss that may require surgical treatment.

According to this diagnosis, the periodontologist determines the appropriate treatment plan for the patient and initiates the treatment process. Gum diseases diagnosed early can be controlled and tooth loss can be prevented with regular oral care and professional treatment.

Periodontology Treatment

Periodontology treatment varies depending on the type of gum disease and the level of disease progression. The treatment process covers different methods, starting from simple cleaning procedures in the early stages to surgical interventions in advanced cases. The aim is to maintain the health of the tissues supporting the teeth, control infection and prevent tooth loss.

Preventive and Preventive Treatments

Measures taken to prevent the progression of periodontal disease can be effective for cases diagnosed early.

• Professional Dental Cleaning (Detartraj): Plaque and tartar are removed from the tooth surface.
• Regular Tooth Brushing and Flossing: The patient is educated to improve oral hygiene.
• Antiseptic Mouthwashes: Helps prevent gingivitis.

Treatment with medication

Some gum diseases may require medication:

• Antibiotics: Used to control gum infections.
• Antiseptic gels and mouthwashes: Helps to reduce bacterial growth.
• Painkillers and Anti-Inflammatory Medicines: It is used to alleviate discomfort during treatment.

Mechanical and Deep Cleaning Methods

More extensive cleaning procedures are applied in advanced gum diseases:

• Root Surface Smoothing (Curettage): It is performed to remove bacterial plaque and calculus adhering to the tooth root surface.
• Subgingival Curettage: It is the process of removing infected tissues in gum pockets.

Periodontal Surgical Treatments

Surgical methods can be used in advanced stages of periodontal diseases:

• Flap Operation: The gums are opened, the root surfaces are cleaned and the inflamed tissue is removed.
• Gum Graft: In areas with gingival recession, the lost gum is replaced by using tissue taken from the patient's mouth.
• Bone Graft: Support is provided by adding bone powder to areas where bone loss occurs due to periodontitis.
• Regenerative Treatments: Treatments to rebuild the supporting tissues of the teeth using biomaterials that encourage the formation of new bone and connective tissues.

Laser Periodontal Treatment

In recent years, the use of laser in gum treatments has become widespread. Its advantages are as follows:

• Reduces bleeding and pain.
• Cleans infected tissues more precisely.
• It shortens the healing time.

Treatment of Peri-implant Diseases

Periodontology also treats gum disease around the implant:

• Periimplantitis: Mechanical cleaning, antibiotic therapy and laser applications are used to treat infections around the implant.
• Gingival Recession on Implant: It can be corrected with gum grafting and other surgical procedures.

Gingival Aesthetic Treatments (Gummy Smile Correction)

Aesthetic gum surgery can be applied in cases where gum levels are irregular or appear excessive (gummy smile). A more aesthetic smile is achieved by correcting the gum form with laser or surgical methods.

Periodontology treatments give successful results if diagnosed early and help prevent tooth loss. For this reason, it is important to consult a periodontology specialist immediately when symptoms of gum diseases are noticed.

What are the Common Dental Diseases in Periodontology?

Periodontology is a specialty that deals with the health of the gums and tissues that support the teeth. Gum diseases are usually caused by bacterial infections and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. The most common gum diseases in periodontology:

Gingivitis (Gum Inflammation): Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and is usually characterized by bleeding gums, swelling and redness.

Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease, can develop. In this disease, the gums separate from the tooth, gum pockets form and bone loss occurs over time.

Advanced Periodontal Disease (Advanced Periodontitis): If gum disease is left untreated, it can progress to a serious stage that can lead to tooth loss and jaw bone resorption. At this stage, the supporting tissues of the teeth are largely lost and in most patients the teeth fall out spontaneously or need to be extracted.

Periimplantitis (Infections Around the Implant): Dental implants can also be affected by gum disease. Periimplantitis is inflammation of the soft and hard tissues around the implant.

Gingival Recession: The gums may recede over time, exposing the tooth roots.

Gingival Abscess: These are swellings caused by infections in the gums. It can occur with symptoms such as severe pain, pus-filled sacs and fever.

If gum diseases are not diagnosed and treated early, they can lead to tooth loss and serious damage to the jawbone. Periodontology specializes in the treatment of these diseases and helps patients maintain their oral health. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene are of great importance to prevent gum diseases.

Areas of Periodontology

Periodontology is a broad specialty that covers the protection of the health of the soft and hard tissues surrounding the teeth, the treatment of diseases and aesthetic gum surgery. Studies in this field are generally divided into three main groups: preventive treatments, surgical interventions and aesthetic applications.

Preventive and Preventive Periodontology

This area is used to prevent the development of gum disease and stop it in its early stages.

• Professional teeth cleaning (detartraj)
• Early diagnosis of gum diseases
• Training on tooth brushing and flossing
• Drugs and antiseptic applications to prevent gingivitis

Therapeutic Periodontology

It covers the diagnosis of gum disease and treatments to stop its progression.

• Treatment of gingivitis (mild gingivitis)
• Treatment of periodontitis (advanced gum disease)
• Cleaning and minimizing gum pockets
• Root surface smoothing and curettage procedures

Surgical Periodontology

Surgical interventions may be necessary to treat advanced gum disease.

• Flap surgery: This is used to reduce the size of gum pockets and remove inflamed tissues.
• Gum grafts: Used to replace missing tissues in gum recession.
• Bone grafts: It is used to repair bone tissue that has melted after tooth loss.
• Regenerative treatments: Biomaterials are used to regenerate damaged periodontal tissues.

Aesthetic Periodontology

It includes applications to make healthy gums look aesthetically beautiful at the same time.

• Surgical or laser correction of excessive gums (Gummy smile treatment)
• Correction of gingival symmetry disorders.
• Lightening of dark gums (depigmentation procedure).

5. Implantology and Periimplant Diseases

It covers implant applications to complete tooth deficiencies.

• Dental implant surgery.
• Treatment of peri-implant infections (periimplantitis).

Periodontology is a broad branch of dentistry that is not only limited to the treatment of diseases, but also aims to achieve a healthy and aesthetic structure of teeth and gums. Therefore, regular dental check-ups are of great importance to maintain gum health.

What are the Symptoms of Gum Diseases?

Gum diseases are usually insidious and can lead to serious health problems if not diagnosed early. The following symptoms may indicate gum disease:

Bleeding Gums

• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
• Bleeding that occurs spontaneously or with slight pressure
• Prolonged and recurrent bleeding gums

Gum Swelling and Redness

• Gums appearing swollen and redder than normal
• Sensitivity in the gums due to swelling
• Pain sensation even with light touches

Bad breath (Halitosis)

• Persistent and persistent bad breath
• Metallic or bad taste in the mouth
• Persistent odor despite daily oral hygiene

Gum Recession

• Teeth appear longer than they really are
• Exposure of tooth roots and increased tooth sensitivity
• Gaps between the teeth become prominent due to gum recession

Swaying and Displacement of Teeth

• Slight movement or change in the position of the teeth
• Teeth do not feel the same during chewing
• Growth of gaps between the teeth

Gingival Abscesses and Inflammatory Discharges

• Abscess formation and pus discharge in the gums
• Severe pain and throbbing sensation
• Persistent sensitivity and discomfort in the gums

If any one or more of these symptoms are present, it is necessary to consult a periodontology specialist immediately to prevent progressive gum disease.

How are gum diseases diagnosed?

The diagnosis of gum disease is made using a detailed clinical examination, radiological examinations and specialized tests.

Patient History and Evaluation of Symptoms

The dentist assesses the patient's health history and the symptoms of gum disease:

• Are there bleeding gums, swelling and pain?
• Are there complaints of bad breath and receding gums?
• Does the patient have a systemic disease (diabetes, heart disease, etc.)?

Clinical Examination

• Gum color, swelling and recession are checked.
• Gum bleeding test is performed. If the gums bleed with a slight pressure, this is a sign of inflammation.
• With the tooth mobility test, the displacement or swaying of the teeth is checked.

Periodontal Pocket Depth Measurement

The depth of the gum pockets is measured with a special periodontal probe:

• 1-3 mm: Healthy gums
• 4-5 mm: Onset of gingivitis (gingivitis)
• 6 mm and above: Periodontitis, advanced gum disease

4. X-ray and Imaging Methods

• Panoramic X-ray: Shows the general condition of the jawbone and teeth.
• Periapical X-ray: Provides a detailed examination of specific teeth.
• Digital Tomography (CBCT): In advanced cases, it is used to evaluate the gum and bone structure in three dimensions.

Bacteriological and Genetic Tests

In some patients, laboratory tests can be performed to detect the bacteria that cause gum disease. Saliva tests can also be used to determine genetic predisposition.

As a result of the diagnostic process, the progression of gum disease can be prevented by creating an appropriate treatment plan for the patient.

How is gum disease treated?

The treatment of gum diseases varies depending on the level of the disease. The treatment plan is based on stopping gingivitis, preventing bone loss and maintaining oral health.

Preventive and Preventive Treatments

• Plaque and tartar are removed with professional dental cleaning (detartraj).
• Training in tooth brushing and flossing is provided.
• Antiseptic mouthwashes and special toothpastes are recommended.

Treatment with medication

Some gum diseases may require medication:

• Antibiotics: Used to control gum infections.
• Antiseptic mouthwashes: Helps to reduce bacterial growth.
• Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines: Relieves pain during treatment.

Deep Cleaning Methods

In advanced gum diseases, more extensive cleaning procedures are applied:

• Root surface smoothing (curettage): It is performed to remove plaque and calculus adhering to the root surface of the tooth.
• Subgingival curettage: It is the process of removing infected tissues in gum pockets.

Periodontal Surgical Treatments

• Flap surgery It is performed to reduce the size of pockets in advanced gum disease.
• Gum grafting: It is applied to regenerate receding gums.
• Bone grafting: In areas with bone loss, bone powder is used to support the tissue.

Periodontal Treatment with Laser

In recent years, laser applications have become widespread in gum treatments. The advantages of laser treatment are:

• Less pain and bleeding
• Faster recovery time
• More precise cleaning of infected tissues

Treatment of Peri-implant Diseases

• Periimplantitis treatment: It is applied to eliminate infections around the implant.
• Peri-implant tissue repair: Special treatments are applied to the implant area with bone and gum loss.

Gingival Aesthetic Treatments

Gum diseases can sometimes cause aesthetic problems. The following treatments can be applied for smile aesthetics:

• Gummy smile correction: Laser or surgical correction of excessive gums
• Gum contouring: Correction of unsymmetrical gums
• Gum bleaching: Bringing dark gums to a healthier and lighter shade

Gum diseases can be controlled with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. To have healthy gums, it is of great importance to have regular dental check-ups, maintain good oral hygiene and avoid risk factors such as smoking. When you observe the symptoms of gum diseases, consulting a periodontology specialist immediately is a critical step in preventing progressive gum diseases.