Periodontology Guide: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Process in Gum Diseases

Periodontology is, in short, the branch of dentistry that deals with gum diseases. Periodontology specialists deal with gum recession, inflammation, gum bleeding, and infections around the teeth. At the same time, the application of these treatments is not limited only to individuals experiencing advanced gum problems. For example, a periodontology check-up is also performed for someone who wants to get an implant.

The duration of periodontology treatment varies from patient to patient. While the treatment period is shorter in mild cases, it is longer in cases requiring surgical intervention. It is very important for the patient to follow the doctor’s instructions after treatment and to pay attention to oral care. This way, the healing process goes more smoothly, and the applied treatment becomes more permanent and long-lasting.

What is Periodontology?

Periodontology is the branch of dentistry that deals with the health of the gums and the tissues surrounding the tooth. This branch covers the diagnosis and treatment of gum inflammation, bone loss, gum recession, and infections around the tooth. In short, the periodontology department deals with gum diseases. Potential tooth loss is prevented through early periodontology intervention.

A periodontology specialist is called a “periodontist.” Periodontists deal with gum bleeding and inflammation, gum recession, and bone tissues around the teeth.

What Does Periodontology Mean?

The word “Periodontology” is derived from the Greek words “peri” (around), “odont” (tooth), and “logos” (science). Thus, it means “the science of the tissues surrounding the tooth.”

What Does Periodontology Do?

Periodontology performs procedures other than gum treatment. In addition, not only superficial cleaning but also comprehensive treatments extending to deep tissues are applied. Periodontology treatments are very important and necessary for the long-term protection of oral health.

Periodontology treatments include:

• Scaling and plaque removal

• Curettage

• Gum grafting

• Bone grafting

• Flap operations

• Tissue preparation before implant

Who Undergoes Periodontology Treatment?

Periodontology treatment is not only applied to individuals with advanced gum diseases. It can also be applied to individuals with aesthetic concerns or specific problems.

Individuals who can undergo the treatment include:

• Those experiencing continuous gum bleeding

• Those with gum recession and sensitivity problems

• Those with bad breath problems

• Those feeling wobbliness and gaps in their teeth

• Those who want to get dental implants

• Individuals who have previously received gum treatment

How Long Does Periodontology Treatment Take?

Periodontological treatments vary depending on the severity of the disease, the method to be applied, and the patient’s oral care. Some procedures can be completed in a single session, while others take weeks. How the patient manages the healing process by following or not following the given instructions directly affects this period.

Average treatment durations are as follows:

• Mild gum problem (gingivitis): 1-2 sessions

• Moderate infection (periodontitis): 2-4 weeks

• Cases requiring surgical intervention: Follow-up for 1-3 months

• Preparation before implant: 1-2 months

How is Periodontology Treatment Performed?

Periodontology treatment varies according to the patient’s needs, the method to be applied, and whether additional procedures are required. The same treatment steps may not be applied to every patient because treatment plans are created specifically for the individual.

Stages of periodontology treatment are:

• Examination and radiography

• Scaling

• Curettage (Root surface debridement)

• Surgical Intervention if necessary

• Healing process and controls

Examination and Radiography

Treatment begins with a detailed dental examination. Gum pocket depth is checked, and tooth mobility is controlled. If deemed necessary, bone loss is detected by taking panoramic or periapical X-rays.

Scaling

Scaling is an important step in periodontology treatment. At this stage, plaque and tartar accumulated on the surface are cleaned. As a result, gum inflammation decreases, and gum tissue is helped to recover.

Curettage

If there is inflammation in deeper gum pockets, a cleaning procedure extending to the tooth root surface is performed. This procedure is called curettage or root surface debridement. In this treatment, the aim is to remove inflamed tissues and microorganisms from the environment.

Surgical Intervention

In cases where inflammation is advanced and there is tissue loss, surgical intervention may be required. In this procedure, the gum is opened with the help of special instruments. Afterwards, bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, or flap operations may be applied.

Healing Process

After the treatment, patients are offered specific care recommendations. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and attend regular check-ups for the gum tissue to heal healthily. Paying attention to oral care after treatment ensures that healing is permanent.

Periodontology Treatment Prices

Periodontology treatment prices vary depending on the severity of the disease, the experience of the periodontology specialist, the location and equipment of the clinic, and the treatment method applied. For precise price information, an examination must be performed first. This way, more accurate information regarding the price can be obtained.

Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontology