More About Periodontology
Periodontology is the study of the supporting structures of the teeth and the diseases and conditions that affect them. These supporting structures are known collectively as the periodontium and include the gum tissue, the jawbone, cementum, and periodontal ligaments. The doctor who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases is called a periodontist. A periodontist also specializes in the placement of dental implants.
Periodontium Breakdown
Alveolar bone: In your jaw bone, there is a bony socket that supports each tooth and is made of alveolar bone, which is more spongy and less dense than the compact bone of your jaw. The lining of each spongy tooth socket is composed of more dense bone, helping to hold the tooth in place.
Periodontal ligament: The periodontal ligament is a type of connective tissue, joining the outer layer of the tooth root to the surrounding alveolar bone. When we chew, force is placed on our teeth, but that force is absorbed by these periodontal ligaments.
Cementum: This is the outer layer of the tooth root. It provides the surface for the periodontal ligaments to hold the tooth into the socket. Just like enamel protects the part of your tooth that you can see, cementum protects the roots. Where the cementum meets the enamel is called the cemento-enamel junction.
Free gingiva: At the cemento-enamel junction, the free gingiva is the fiber tissue that covers it.
Attached gingiva: Much like the periodontal ligament absorbs some of the force when we chew, the attached gingiva also dissipates stresses placed on the teeth when we eat, talk, or perform oral hygiene.
Interdental gingiva: This one sounds like what it is: the gums (gingiva) filling the space between (inter) teeth (dental). It prevents food impaction between teeth while eating.
Gingivae: The gingiva is simply your gum tissue, the part you can see when you smile!
Alveolar mucosa: This tissue is the part of the mouth that connects your gums to your cheeks and lips and allows movement.
Gingival disease: Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease and is indicated by swelling of the gum tissue as well as bleeding when you brush or floss. Gingivitis can usually be cleared up with improved oral hygiene.
Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease develops when gingivitis is not treated. It results from plaque accumulation and can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Symptoms of periodontal disease include bleeding gums, chronic bad breath that does not resolve with oral hygiene, ill-fitting dental prosthesis, and loose teeth.
Periodontal disease is most commonly a result of poor oral hygiene, and if it is not treated, can be detrimental to the health of your mouth, as well as your system and health. Periodontal disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and even cognitive decline.
A periodontist can treat all degrees of periodontal disease and can provide ongoing maintenance. If you lose a tooth, a periodontist can place a dental implant for you and monitor the health of the implant as long as you have it.
Related Article: Periodontist Frequently Asked Questions