Periodontology
Periodontology is the branch of dentistry that deals with the supporting structures around the teeth, collectively known as the periodontium. The term periodontology is derived from the Greek words “peri” meaning environment and “odon” meaning tooth.
These periodontal structures include:
- Gums
- Alveolar or jawbone
- Cementum that attaches the tooth to the periodontal ligament and attaches it to the jawbone
- The periodontal ligament that holds the tooth in place in the jawbone
- A periodontist is a specialist who deals with diseases and treatment of any of these supporting structures.
Some of the conditions and situations handled by such an expert include:
Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Gingivitis is inflammation and infection of the gums. Periodontitis is a more severe form of infection involving not only the gums but also the periodontal structures at the base of the teeth. In severe cases, periodontitis can cause severe toothache and even tooth loss.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis Treatment
Gum and periodontal disease often occurs as a result of tooth decay or tooth decay. As the bacterial acids create cavities or holes in the hard tooth enamel of the tooth, the pulp begins to become infected.
The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and infective bacteria can pass through these vessels to the root of the tooth. This can lead to tooth abscesses and serious infections that cause pain. A periodontology surgeon may need to prescribe antibiotics for such infections using antibiotics or perform surgical procedures such as draining a dental abscess.
Treatment conditions related to the use of dental implants:
Maintaining the health, function and cosmetic appearance of supporting structures. For example, a
periodontist may need to replace a lost or damaged tooth.
Periodontal-endodontic treatment includes both periodontic and endodontic principles.
TARTAR CLEANING
Scaling is routinely done to help patients with gum disease and excessive plaque build-up. While a standard cleaning addresses the surface of the tooth, this method goes much deeper. If your dentist recommends scaling and root grating for your teeth, knowing what that means will help you prepare for what’s ahead.
Scaling is a common dental procedure for patients with gum disease. This is a type of dental cleaning that reaches below the gum line to remove plaque build-up. The process of scaling teeth and smoothing the root surface is often called deep cleaning. This treatment goes beyond the general cleaning you get with your regular checkup and annual visit.
When is Teeth Cleaning Necessary?
Everyone experiences some form of plaque build-up. The saliva, bacteria, and proteins in your mouth almost always form a thin layer that covers your teeth. When you eat, the tiny particles, acids and sugars in the food adhere to this surface, forming a build-up known as plaque on the teeth. Bacteria living in this plaque can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing, flossing, and regular teeth cleaning will help remove plaque and prevent more serious problems.
If you have healthy gums, the tissue will fit tightly around the tooth and keep plaque out. However, if gum disease begins to occur, this tissue will loosen. Healthy gums attach to the tooth only 1 to 3 millimeters below the gum line. With gum disease, deeper pockets will begin to form. These can become filled with plaque, worsening your problems, and causing symptoms such as bad breath.
If you have pockets of 4 millimeters or more, your dentist will likely recommend scaling to remove plaque below the gum line and help treat gum disease.
SUBGINGIVAL CURETTAGE
Curettage is a professional treatment to remove tartar formation in the presence of inflamed gums and is performed by a dental hygienist. Dental curettage should not be confused with traditional dental cleaning performed on the tooth without touching the gingival area.
Curettage is a more intensive treatment that corrects periodontal problems and is performed below the gum line. Curettage is a procedure in which the gums are first scraped, then polished and flattened to the roots of the teeth to remove tartar.
When do we recommend this treatment?
Gum disease is caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque that can be prevented by brushing three times a day. But brushing isn’t enough to kill bacteria, as some areas of the teeth, especially the edges of the gums, are difficult to reach.
Since periodontal diseases are asymptomatic, it is necessary to visit the dentist regularly, who can detect the problem and recommend curettage treatment. However, when diseases such as gingivitis progress, symptoms such as swelling and redness of the gums can be seen.
Why is it recommended?
Curettage is a more complex treatment than dental cleaning and should be performed by a dental hygienist or periodontist. Curettage is a treatment that benefits not only oral health but also health in general. It improves the aesthetics of teeth and gums, acts by destroying bacterial plaque, reduces the risk of tooth loss, prevents bad breath, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

