Category: Clinical Periodontology

Introduction Periodontal diseases are one of the most prevalent oral diseases associated with teeth. Our current knowledge suggests that along with local factors, there are many other factors responsible for periodontal disease progression. These include genetic factors and environmental factors like smoking, stress etc. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning require a thorough knowledge…

Introduction Radiographic diagnosis is a challenging task in periodontics. This is primarily because the conventional radiographs provide us the two dimensional image of a three-dimensional object. Thus, it becomes essential that the patient is diagnosed on the basis of combined information obtained from clinical and radiographic findings 1. The radiographs are broadly classified as extraoral…

Introduction to history taking Case history recording is the first and the most important step in the treatment of a patient. A correct diagnosis leads us to a correct treatment plan. The case history is a planned professional conversation with the patient that enables the patient to communicate their symptoms. The interest, warmth, and compassion…

Introduction to trauma from occlusion Do abnormal occlusal forces play a significant role in the initiation and progression of periodontal diseases? This question has been our focus of attention for many years. It is generally accepted that trauma from occlusion (TFO) or occlusal traumatism is a separate entity, not related to periodontitis. But, when both…

Introduction to occlusal trauma Occlusal trauma is detrimental to periodontal health. It may act as a cofactor which can increase the rate of progression of an existing periodontal disease. Thus, elimination of occlusal trauma is essential to achieve complete periodontal health. The first and foremost principle for the initial treatment of patients diagnosed with periodontitis…

Introduction to occlusion Occlusion plays an important role in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. A faulty occlusion may induce traumatic lesions in the supporting periodontal structures, thereby adversely affecting the long-term prognosis of tooth/teeth. Occlusion may also indirectly affect the periodontal health status by interfering with the plaque elimination and by influencing periodontal defense mechanism.…

Introduction to oral malodor The term halitosis is a general term used to describe any disagreeable odor of expired air, regardless of its origin. It is a common problem because of which patients visit the dentist. Historically, it has been known by various names such as halitosis, fetor oris and fetor ex-ore. Since ancient times,…

Introduction to bleeding disorders There are various causes of excessive bleeding including coagulation factor deficiencies, fibrinolytic defects, vascular disorders and platelet disorders. Patients with congenital bleeding disorders have an increased risk of significant bleeding from invasive dental and oral surgery procedures. A thorough knowledge of the blood clotting mechanism is essential for the understanding and…

Introduction There are many endocrinal disorders associated with significant problems in the human body. Many patients with these disorders seek periodontal treatment. Hence, it becomes essential for a periodontist to understand these disorders and provide appropriate treatment to patients with endocrinal disorders. In the following discussion, we shall read about these disorders and periodontal management…