Periodontics is responsible for diagnosing, preventing and treating diseases that affect the structure of the teeth. This includes the gums, the cementum that covers the root, the periodontal ligament and the alveolar bone. "Peri" means around, and "odontal" refers to the teeth. Periodontal disease is also known as pyorrhea.

In the early stages of the disease it is known as gingivitis, the infection only affects the gums. Swollen and bleeding gums are the first signs that your gums are infected. If nothing is done, the infection can spread and become more severe, a stage known as periodontitis. It can destroy the structures that support the teeth. Over time, teeth can become loose, and the ultimate consequence is extraction. All supporting tissues are involved.



There are other factors that can contribute to periodontal disease, such as:
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• Genetics: Some people are more likely than others to get periodontal disease because of their genes. But these are not responsible for poor hygiene. People who are highly prone to periodontal disease can prevent or control the disease with good oral hygiene.

• Tobacco use: Smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease. The more you smoke, the greater the risk. If you have pyorrhea, smoking makes it more severe. Smoking is one of the main reasons that some cases of periodontal disease are resistant to treatment. Smokers tend to accumulate more tartar on their teeth. They often develop deeper periodontal pockets once they have disease. They are also prone to losing more bone as the disease worsens.

• Misaligned teeth: Difficulty brushing or flossing is likely to help build up plaque and tartar. Your chance of developing pyorrhea will be higher. Dentists and periodontists can help improve dental hygiene.

• Bruxism: These habits will not cause periodontal disease. However, they can lead to more serious disease if your gums are already inflamed. These habits put excessive force on the teeth. This pressure appears to accelerate the breakdown of the periodontal ligament and bone. Your dentist or periodontist may recommend wearing a relaxation splint to reduce the pressure of clenching or grinding your teeth.

• Stress: Stress weakens your body's immune system. This makes it more difficult for your body to fight infections, including periodontal disease.

• Hormonal: When hormone levels rise and fall in the body, these changes affect the mouth. Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can temporarily increase the risk and severity of periodontal disease.

• Medications: Some types of medications for depression and high blood pressure can cause dry mouth or xerostomia. If you don't have enough saliva, plaques are more likely to form. Other medicines can cause the gums to become enlarged. This makes them more prone to trapping plaque.​

 

At the Dr. Estévez Dental Clinic we are experts in dental periodontics. We study your case with the best medical equipment and the most advanced equipment, preparing an accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate periodontics treatment for your case.

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Do you need a periodontics? Make an appointment with us!