It has become easy for us as a society to focus on convenience and taking so much for granted. This certainly includes the undervalued asset of our smiles, and your teeth and gums that create your smile. Let us first discuss the soft gum tissue in your mouth. You certainly have heard of gum disease, and the trained dentist called a periodontist that specializes in treating this disease. But a periodontist is trained to do considerably more.
What is the Science of Periodontology?
Periodontology is one of nine specific branches in the dental sciences that focuses on the study of the hard and soft tissues that support your teeth. Your gums contribute to helping keep your teeth in their correct position in the jaw and assist with the teeth working efficiently during chewing. The gums also function as shock absorbers during biting and chewing, preventing damage to the teeth from the excessive forces. Each tooth is located in a bony socket. The bony socket is made up of a complex network of small fibers. These fibers, called periodontal ligaments, literally hold each tooth in place. Over time and as we age the tissue adapts and makes changes to keep your teeth secure and stable.
Why is Periodontology Important?
Again, something that is taken for granted. Everything you need for your life-sustaining nutrition passes through your mouth. At any given time through the course of any day you have millions of bacteria in your mouth. Your mouth is an extremely vital part of your body and can determine the overall health of your body. Studies have proven that half of American adults over the age of 30 have some level of gum disease. The main cause of gum disease is simply neglect and poor hygiene. The health industry strongly recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. If you neglect to do this, you are leaving and allowing a buildup of a clear sticky substance on your teeth called plaque. The plaque harbors damaging bacteria. When the plaque progresses down the teeth and reaches your gumline the soft tissue immediately becomes infected. A periodontist will perform treatments to remove this plaque and stymie the infection. If neglected and left unattended the plaque increases in intensity. The gums continue to swell and sag away from the teeth. The gum disease is now jeopardizing your oral health with the stabilization of the teeth. It is a painless disease which is why so many adults suffer from it. The longer you neglect the disease the more complicated the treatment is to correct the gums.
Your Gums are an Important Part of Your Body
Your gums can easily reflect the health of your entire body. A periodontist will look at your gums and can diagnose if you have diabetes or a blood disorder. Periodontology also specializes on cosmetic improvements regarding your gums and your smile as well as focusing on the placement of dental implants, the new gold standard for a missing tooth restoration. Do not take your teeth and gums for granted. Keep your teeth, your gums, and your smile healthy.
