Periodontology

It is a branch of dentistry which deals with the diseases of gingiva and tissues around the root (periodontal ligaments, alveolar bone and cement).

Healthy gums do not bleed upon brushing. Following tooth brushing, pink-red coloured saliva in the sink indicates inflammation of the gums.

Healthy gums are usually pale pink in colour, opaque, dimpled, having a hard consistency. They do not bleed and they end sharply without any swellings where they touch the tooth surface.

About Periodontology Frequently Asked Questions

How is gingival inflammation diagnosed?

Healthy gums do not bleed upon brushing. Following tooth brushing, pink-red coloured saliva in the sink indicates inflammation of the gums.

What are the gingival diseases? Which symptoms indicate them?

Gingival diseases are widely variable ranging from simple gingivitis (inflammation of gums) to severe infections (periodontitis), in which structural tissue loss occurs in the jaw bones and teeth loosen and fall out. These diseases cause the gums to swell, redden, bleed, and recede; therefore, causing teeth to appear longer and be displaced with empty spaces in between. Foul mouth odour and teeth loss occur.

Are there any other causes of gingival diseases?

It is well-established that the major factor is the formation of microbial dental plaques. However, several other systemic, environmental or genetic factors constitute risk factors for developing the disease.

What is the association between diabetes (diabetes mellitus) and periodontal disease?

The micro-organisms involved in the development of periodontal disease and the harmful substances synthesized by them are mainly associated with diabetes. Scientific studies have demonstrated that the development of periodontal disease is more likely in patients with uncontrolled diabetes compared to patients whose diabetes are controlled even though the mouth hygiene has been found to be equivalent in both groups.