What is Periodontology and a Periodontologist?
The tremendous development of dentistry in both research and technology has led to the emergence of specialties in the specific field in recent years, such as Pediatric Dentist, Endodontist, Orthodontist and Prosthodontist. One of them is the specialty of Periodontics, a field that deals with gum disease - the most important of which are gingivitis and periodontitis - as well as dental implant surgery.
How is Periodontitis Diagnosed?
Periodontitis is diagnosed clinically with a very short and simple examination by the Periodontologist in the dental office, using a specific tool called periodontal probe. The Periodontologist will examine all the surfaces of the teeth in the mouth to find out if they are affected by periodontal disease.
Can I figure out if I have Periodontits without visiting a Periodontist?
Periodontitis is usually difficult to diagnose by the patient himself, especially in the early stages of the disease. It is a treacherous disease where the patient loses bone around his teeth without any apparent symptoms. This is why it is essential to visit a Periodontologist, from the age of 20 and over, to know with complete certainty if he / she suffers from Periodontitis.
If Periodontitis is not cured, what are the consequences?
Periodontitis destroys the bone that supports our teeth. Therefore, without treatment, this bone will gradually disappear, the teeth will start to get loose and eventually lost. With early treatment, however, it is possible to stop this progression and keep the teeth in the mouth.
I'm a smoker. Am I more likely to get Periodontitis?
Smoking is a serious risk factor for periodontitis. A smoker is 3 to 7 times more likely to have periodontitis than a non-smoker! We also need to know that the treatment of periodontitis in smokers is not as effective as in non-smokers.
I am getting ready to have a baby. Is It Important To Visit A Periodontist?
A visit to the Periodontist is considered mandatory before pregnancy because women during pregnancy, are more likely to develop gingivitis or periodontitis than non-pregnant women, due to changes in their hormones. In addition, pregnant women with periodontitis have an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, or delivery of low weight neonates, caused by the transmission of oral pathogens to the placenta.
I have heard that periodontitis is related to heart disease.
There are many studies that correlate Periodontitis with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The pathogenic germs of periodontitis through the blood can reach the heart and cause significant damage.
I have periodontitis. Is there a risk of transmission through the kiss or glass sharing?
Periodontitis-causing germs exist in our oral cavity as part of normal flora. Transmission of germs between humans can occur, however, for the disease to occur additional conditions are required.
I am going to start dental work in my mouth, such as fillings, crowns and I was diagnosed with Periodontitis. Where should I start from?
Periodontal treatment is the first step in the treatment of dental problems. Only if there is no bleeding and has Periodontitis been treated can the dentist begin the rest of the dental work, such as fillings and crowns.
The Periodontologist told me that I needed 4-6 appointments to complete my treatment. Could my treatment be completed in one session?
Periodontal therapy is a treatment that requires detail and time to get the desired result. It is not a simple cleaning. In addition, the discomfort for the patient would be much greater if treatment were given in one session. Thus, the number of appointments is determined by the extent and severity of Periodontitis.
Is Periodontitis Prevented?
Periodontitis is a multifactorial disease with a major causative factor of germs. Theoretically, with very good oral hygiene and frequent visits to the Periodontist, the disease can be prevented.
I have been diagnosed with periodontitis. Should the rest of my family be checked too?
Yes. Because there is a hereditary predisposition. In some forms of periodontitis all members of the family should be examined.
I have gingivitis. Do I need to worry about getting Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is the next stage in the progression of gingivitis. Therefore, every gingivitis patient is at risk of developing Periodontitis. For this reason, gingivitis should be treated promptly and effectively, so as not to progress to periodontitis.
Visit Periodontologist Nikolaos Delendas,
for specialized high-quality dental services.
for specialized high-quality dental services.