Periodontal
Pronunciation: pehr-ee-oh-DON-tal
Relating to the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth, including the gums, alveolar bone, and periodontal ligament.
Full Definition
The adjective 'periodontal' describes anything pertaining to the periodontium — the specialised tissues that anchor teeth in the jaw, comprising the gingiva, periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. In dental documentation, the term appears frequently in diagnoses such as 'periodontal disease' or 'periodontal pocket'. Editors should ensure it is not conflated with 'periapical', which refers to the region around the tooth's root tip rather than its surrounding support structures. It is always lowercase unless beginning a sentence or used as part of a proper noun (e.g., American Academy of Periodontology).
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase as a standalone adjective. Distinguish carefully from 'periapical' in clinical notes and radiology reports.
In Context
- "The patient was referred to a specialist after the initial examination revealed advanced periodontal bone loss." — Clinical referral letter
- "Periodontal charting must be completed before any scaling and root planing is scheduled." — Treatment planning document