More About Periodontology
Periodontology is the study of the soft and hard tissues that support your teeth and maintain your jaw position, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that negatively affect the periodontium (supporting structures of the teeth). The periodontium serves several critical functions, including maintaining proper positioning of your teeth to ensure you can comfortably and efficiently chew. It also acts as a shock absorber while chewing and biting, protecting the teeth from becoming damaged, and the periodontium securely attaches your teeth to your jaws.
The periodontium is comprised of the tooth socket, which is a bony pouch in the lower and upper jawbone where your teeth are positioned. Supporting roots of the teeth, which are covered in a layer of cementum, extend to the tooth socket, and between the tooth socket and cementum are periodontal ligaments, which are responsible for holding your teeth in place. These individual component structures work together and are adaptable in their ability to respond to changes in the thickness and shape of your teeth, which will change over time.
Although periodontist flower mound texas specialize in addressing issues related to the periodontium, addressing and treating these issues can often play a critical role in determining underlying systemic issues causing them to occur. Periodontal disease has been linked to other health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s’, and more. Given the interconnected nature of your periodontal health as reflected by the health of the rest of your body, periodontology is often aptly described as a ‘holistic’ form of dentistry.
What Causes Periodontal Disease to Develop?
There are many factors that can contribute to a patient developing periodontal disease, such as lifestyle habits (smokers are at a significantly increased risk of developing periodontal disease, as are people who have a diet that is high in starchy or sugary foods), genetic predisposition, and underlying health conditions, such as diabetes. The most common cause of periodontal disease, however, is due to dental plaque.
Dental plaque is a sticky film covering teeth that is formed by saliva, proteins, and bacteria. Every time you eat, acids, particles, and sugars can get stuck on this plaque. Brushing your teeth, flossing, and rinsing regularly are often sufficient measures to remove the majority of this plaque, but there are times when plaque is not removed and allowed to build up. When plaque builds up over a period of time, it will eventually harden and turn into calculus.
When calculus forms, it can no longer be removed through traditional brushing and/or flossing, and will require a professional cleaning from a periodontist to be removed. If calculus is not removed early enough, gum disease can develop, which can cause a range of issues, including gum recession, jawbone deterioration, and eventually the loss of teeth.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Developing Periodontal Issues
Unfortunately, everyone is at risk of developing periodontal disease, but there are several steps that can be taken to reduce your risk. Brushing and flossing twice daily is one of the most effective methods for reducing risk of periodontal disease, as well as avoiding the use of tobacco (especially chewing tobacco) and sugary foods or beverages. It is also important to schedule regular periodontal maintenance, as doing so allows your periodontist to provide you with a professional cleaning and monitor the overall health of your periodontium, addressing issues before they develop into something worse.
More About Periodontists : Periodontist Frequently Asked Questions