Who is a periodontist

According to world Dental Federation (FDI) in 2018 “Periodontal disease is among humanity’s most common diseases, affecting up to 50% of the global population, and can have serious consequences such as tooth loss”. It is thought to affect around 20 per cent of Australian adults.

The forms of presentation of this disease ranges from a sole inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) to extensive damage to supporting structures of the teeth including irreversible bone lose leading eventually to tooth loss.

Individuals affected by periodontitis have a genetic susceptibilityor tendency for bone loss as a reaction to dental biofilm (bacterial plaque). Periodontitis is a Silent destructive disease, as often is not associated with pain or other symptom, and the affected individual is not aware of having it. The progression of disease and related damages often happens slowly, leading to formation of deep pockets between the teeth and gums that also host large number of virulent bacteria.

There are a number of important complications associated with periodontal disease, such as recession of the gums as a result of underlying bone loss, sensitive teeth as a result of receding gums and exposure of sensitive root surfaces, bad breath, mobile teeth, pathological shifting of teeth (following bone loss and reduced teeth support), and most importantly loss of teeth affecting aesthetic and masticatory functions.  

As genetic is playing an important role in inheriting periodontal disease, it needs life long monitoring and management as it cannot be eradicated completely. However, the good news is that it can be well controlled, halting the progressive bone damage and preserving the teeth and their supporting structure. This needs an effective control of the plaque and other risk factors (smoking, uncontrolled diabetes,...) and regular professional monitoring and maintenance care.