The periodontium is a functional unit whose main roles include the support of the teeth within the jawbones and the provision of sensory information relating to the function of chewing. The components of the periodontium, therefore, include the alveolar bone, cementum, the periodontal ligament, and gingiva(gum). Acute and chronic periodontal disease is one of the most common ailments affecting mankind. Some evidence of deterioration of the periodontal tissues can be demonstrated in almost all dentate adults. The periodontal tissues, like other tissues, are subject to inflammatory, degenerative, dysplastic, and neoplastic pathological changes.
GINGIVITIS
An inflammatory process that usually originates at the dentogingival junction and affects the functional gingiva but may spread secondarily to the alveolar or oral mucosa.It presents with uneven red colour of the gums, thickened blunted margins, and 48 swollen papillae. The gingiva is soft and boggy and may bleed on palpation.
Management
- Oral hygiene instructions.
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash 0.2% rinses or normal saline rinses.
- Dental prophylaxis.
- In severe gingival hypertrophy, gingivoplasty can be recommended.
PERIODONTITIS
Inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth associated with the loss of attachment and alveolar bone. Characterized by gingivitis,periodontal pocket, gingival recession, tooth mobility.
Management
- Oral hygiene instructions.
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash 0.2% rinses or normal saline rinses.
- Full mouth scaling.
- In severe cases root planing is required, periodontal splinting.
- In severe tooth mobility (>3) tooth extraction may be indicated.
- Comprehensive periodontal management is required for aggressive forms of periodontitis