Main description:

Dental hygiene professionals need the very best scientific and clinical
knowledge at their fingertips to effectively assist in the prevention and
treatment of periodontal disease. Periodontology puts the needs of hygienists
center stage, providing a detailed and brilliantly illustrated reference for
daily practice, and a wealth of knowledge to underpin successful diagnosis and
treatment.

A firm grasp of the pathogenesis of periodontal disease is essential
for the hygienist. This book clearly outlines the vital concepts in immunology,
genetics and destruction and repair of periodontal tissues. The innovations and
new scientific evidence in these fields are lucidly described and invoke new
approaches to etiology, diagnosis and treatment.

The importance of links between
oral health and general systemic health cannot be overestimated. Periodontology
conclusively demonstrates the necessity for patient and clinician to keep these
associations to the forefront of risk assessment and treatment.

The benefits of
this integrated approach will be clearly seen in the focus on prevention of oral
disease, a primary objective for all hygiene professionals. The book shows how
the systemic considerations influence the combination of diagnostic,
therapeutic, pharmacological and mechanical treatment strategies.

Frequently
encountered disorders such as gingival recession and pathological changes in the
peridontium are comprehensively documented and the range of prevention and
treatment options set out. The inclusion of specialized subjects such as oral
manifestations of HIV disease and the developments in its treatment serve to
underline the key position of the hygienist in the wider health care team.

The
exceptional color photos throughout will be an indispensable guide to clinicians
and students, and indeed a welcome resource for educators. From diagnostic tools
such as depictions of levels of bleeding right through to detailed
instrumentation techniques, these photos and their concise accompanying text
form an outstanding best-practice guide.

Concluding with the American Academy of
Periodontology's Classification of Periodontal Disease, Periodontology will
augment the knowledge and skills of dental hygienists, keeping practitioners up
to date and providing students with the essential knowledge base for a career in
periodontics.