PERIODONTOLOGY

The science of periodontology deals with inflammatory diseases of the gums and the bone surrounding the teeth (periodontium).

Inflammation occurs as a result of the body’s reaction to bacteria that adhere to the surfaces of the teeth. Together with the toxins they produce and food debris, they form microbial plaque. If microbial plaque is not systematically removed through proper brushing and the use of dental floss or interproximal brushes, it hardens and turns into tartar, which can no longer be removed by brushing alone, but only through scaling performed by a specialized dentist.

The main periodontal diseases are gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (advanced inflammation from the gums to the bone).

At the ATHENS DENTAL CENTER, treatments for periodontal diseases include:

• Treatment of gingivitis.
• Conservative treatment of periodontitis or, in special cases, surgical treatment using specialized ultrasonic devices, scalers, and lasers.
• Periodontal plastic surgery for root coverage, increasing gum thickness, and frenectomy.
• Bone regeneration.