Periodontology
Periodontology
Periodontology (pronunciation: /ˌpɛriədɒnˈtɒlədʒi/) is a branch of dentistry that studies the supporting structures of teeth, as well as diseases and conditions that affect them.
Etymology
The term "Periodontology" is derived from the Greek words "peri", meaning around, "odous", meaning tooth, and "logia", meaning the study of. Thus, it literally means the study of the structures around the teeth.
Overview
Periodontology focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the periodontium. The periodontium includes the tissues that surround and support the teeth, namely the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, cementum, and the periodontal ligament.
Related Terms
- Periodontitis: This is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth.
- Gingivitis: This is a common and mild form of gum disease (periodontal disease) that causes irritation, redness and swelling (inflammation) of your gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth.
- Periodontal Surgery: This is a plastic (reshaping) surgical procedure designed to restore and regenerate normal form and function to lost and damaged periodontal structures which support the teeth.
- Periodontal Pocket: These are dental pockets that result from the destruction of the supporting alveolar bone around a tooth.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Periodontology
- Wikipedia's article - Periodontology
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