Understanding the Periodontium ch18

This set of flashcards is designed to help students review critical concepts about the periodontium and gingival health as outlined in the lecture notes.

What is the periodontium?

The functional unit of tissues surrounding and supporting the tooth.

What are the two main parts of the periodontium?

Gingiva and Attachment apparatus (which includes cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone).

What is the free gingival margin (FGM)?

The edge of the gingiva that borders the gingival sulcus.

What does the base of the pocket (BP) refer to?

The deepest point of the periodontal pocket, where the sulcus epithelium attaches to the tooth.

What is suppuration in the context of periodontium?

The formation of pus, typically due to infection.

Define the cementoenamel junction (CEJ).

The area where the cementum covering the root of the tooth meets the enamel covering the crown.

What is gingival recession?

The location of the gum tissue receding away from the tooth, exposing the root surface.

What is loss of attachment (LOA)?

A measurement of periodontal disease severity that refers to the detachment of the periodontal ligament from the tooth.

Describe the characteristics of healthy gingiva.

Healthy gingiva is coral pink, firm, stippled, has knife-edge margins, and is without bleeding or pus.

What happens to the gingiva after periodontal surgery?

The junctional epithelium may be located apical to the cementoenamel junction.

What factors should be taught to the patient about gingival health?

Self-management practices for periodontal disease, characteristics of healthy gingiva, significance of bleeding, relationship of exam findings to oral care, and proper brushing techniques.

How does the alveolar bone function in relation to the teeth?

The primary function of alveolar bone is to support the teeth and remodel throughout life.

What is the clinical significance of the gingival description?

It assists in assessing gingival health and making treatment decisions based on characteristics such as color, size, and consistency.

What is the significance of the periodontal ligament (PDL)?

It serves as a supportive structure that connects the tooth to the surrounding alveolar bone.

What are the main classifications of interdental embrasures?

They are categorized based on their shape and the amount of space between adjacent teeth in relation to the gingival papilla.

What does healthy attached gingiva look like?

Attached gingiva varies in width and connects the gingiva to the underlying alveolar bone.