Periodontics in Barcelona

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is periodontics?

Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions that affect the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth, such as the alveolar bone.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums caused by bacteria in dental plaque. It includes gingivitis, which is the mildest form, and periodontitis, which is more severe and can lead to tooth loss if not treated properly.

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

Common symptoms include red, swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, abscess formation (periodontal pocket) between the teeth and gums, and tooth mobility.

What causes periodontal disease?

The main cause is the accumulation of bacterial plaque and tartar on the teeth, causing chronic inflammation of the gums. Other risk factors include smoking, genetics, diseases such as diabetes, poor oral hygiene and hormonal changes.

How is periodontal disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made by a complete dental examination. It includes examination of the gums with measurement by periodontogram of the depth of the periodontal pockets and, in some cases, radiographs to evaluate the supporting bone around the teeth.

What treatments are available for periodontal disease?

Treatments vary according to the severity of the disease and include:
– Professional tooth cleaning: To remove plaque and tartar.
– Scaling and root planing: A thorough procedure that cleans the periodontal pockets and smoothes the roots of the teeth.
– Antibiotics: May be prescribed to control bacterial infection.
– Probiotics: Modulates bacterial plaque and in selected cases improves the long-term prognosis by decreasing recurrent infections. – Periodontal surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reduce the periodontal pockets. Probiotics: modulates bacterial plaque and in selected cases improves long-term prognosis by decreasing recurrent infections.
– Periodontal surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reduce periodontal pockets, regenerate bone and tissue, or perform gum grafting.

What is scaling and root planing?

It is a deep treatment to clean the periodontal pockets and root surfaces of the teeth, removing plaque, tartar and bacterial toxins to promote healing and adhesion of the gums to the tooth.

Can periodontal disease be cured?

Although periodontal disease is chronic and has no definitive cure, it can be controlled with proper treatment and constant maintenance of oral hygiene.

How can I prevent periodontal disease?

Some treatments may cause discomfort, especially cold sensitivity. With local anesthesia and, in some cases, post-treatment analgesics, the patient’s experience should be positive. Your specialist will provide you with the necessary instructions to minimize any discomfort.

What can I expect after periodontal treatment?

After treatment, it is normal to experience some sensitivity and mild discomfort. It is crucial to follow the dentist’s postoperative instructions, which may include avoiding hard foods, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments.

How does smoking affect periodontal disease?

Smoking is a significant risk factor for periodontal disease. It increases plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth, reduces immune system response and hinders gum healing.

What are gum grafts and when are they needed?

Gum grafts are surgical procedures that involve taking tissue from a part of the mouth (or using donated material) to cover exposed roots or increase gum volume in affected areas. They are needed when there is severe gingival recession (gum loss).