Periodontitis
Gum disease. The word “periodontitis” literally means “inflammation around the tooth.”
Periodontitis and all periodontal diseases are bacterial infections that destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold the teeth in the mouth. Left untreated, these diseases can lead to tooth loss. The main cause of periodontal disease is a bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on teeth.
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists are also expert in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of the 8 dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.
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- Perionychia
An inflammation of the folds of tissue surrounding the nail due to infection. If caused by an infection, it may be bacterial (most commonly, staph or strep) or fungal in origin. The word is composed of “peri-” meaning around or surrounding + the Greek word “onyx” for nail = around the nail.
- Perionychium
The tissue surrounding the nail, whether it be a fingernail or a toenail, including the tissue bordering the root and sides of the nail. The word is composed of “peri-” meaning around or surrounding + the Greek word “onyx” for nail = around the nail.
- Perioperative
Literally, around (the time of) surgery. More specifically, the period of time extending from when the patient goes into the hospital, clinic, or doctor’s office for surgery until the time the patient is discharged home.
- Periosteal
Pertaining to the periosteum.
- Periosteoma
A benign tumor that arises from the periosteum. Also known as periostoma.