Periodontale

Periodontale, in medical terminology, refers to the periodontium, the specialized tissues that surround and support the teeth. In dentistry, periodontology is the branch that studies the health and disease of these tissues.

The periodontium includes the gingiva (gums), the periodontal ligament, cementum, and the alveolar bone. The gingiva forms a seal around teeth; the periodontal ligament attaches the tooth to the bone and absorbs masticatory forces; cementum covers the tooth root; alveolar bone provides the socket that holds teeth in place. Together, these structures enable tooth stability, distribute chewing forces, and protect deeper tissues.

Healthy periodontium supports tooth stability and function; disease arises from plaque biofilm and inflammation, leading to attachment loss, bone destruction, and tooth mobility. The two main conditions are gingivitis (inflammation confined to the gums, reversible with proper care) and periodontitis (inflammation with progressive attachment loss and bone loss). Other conditions include gingival recession, periodontal abscesses, and advanced tooth mobility due to long-standing periodontitis.

Diagnosis involves clinical probing to measure pocket depths and attachment levels, assessment of bleeding on probing, radiographs to evaluate bone loss, and evaluation of patient risk factors. Treatment emphasizes plaque control: professional cleaning (scaling and root planing), instruction on meticulous home care, and, if needed, surgical approaches such as flap surgery, regenerative procedures, or soft-tissue grafts. Maintenance therapy with regular dental visits is essential to prevent relapse.

Prevention includes effective brushing and interdental cleaning, regular professional cleanings, smoking avoidance, and control of systemic conditions like diabetes. Periodontal health is linked to broader health outcomes, with evidence of associations to cardiovascular disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and metabolic control in diabetes.