What is periodontology?

Question 1

What is periodontology?

Answer 1

Periodontology is the study of the periodontium in health and disease.

Question 2

What is the peridontium?

Answer 2

A complex structure composed of the tissues that surround and support the teeth.

Question 3

What is the peridontium made up of?

Answer 3

Consists of 4 different tissue types which support teeth:
* Gingiva
* Alveolar bone
* Root cementum
* Periodontal ligament
(look at images on notes)

Question 4

What is plaque?

Answer 4

Plaque is a sticky, whitish film. You can remove and prevent plaque by practicing proper oral hygiene.

Question 5

What is calculus?

Answer 5

Calculus is hard, solidified plaque with a yellowish, darker appearance. The only proven way of removing calculus is through professional cleaning.

Question 6

What is periodontitis?

Answer 6

Inflammation of the supporting tissue of the teeth triggered by the accumulation of plaque around the teeth. There is also gum inflammation and bone loss, so patients maybe have receding gums and tooth loss.

Question 7

What are the ways periodonitis can be treated?

Answer 7

1. Communicating with patients and try and improve their oral habits. Improve plaque control. Provide smoking cessation advice. Give general medical advice relevant to periodontal disease.
2. Mechanical removal of plaque and calculus
3. Periodontal surgery offered to patients with advanced disease.
4. Mucogingival (gum graft) surgery