What is Periodontology?

Periodontology is a branch of dentistry that focuses on gums and jawbone (periodontium) health. It deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontitis and other diseases of the supporting structures of the teeth.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis, often called gum disease, is a severe inflammation of the gums that can damage the jawbone and, in the worst cases, lead to tooth loss. It occurs when gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque, is not treated.

What are the Symptoms of Periodontitis?

Symptoms include bleeding gums during brushing, redness and swelling of the gums, receding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, and changes in the alignment of teeth or gaps between them, which can indicate periodontitis.

How is Periodontitis Treated?

Treatment for periodontitis depends on the severity of the condition. It can range from professional dental cleaning to specialised periodontal therapies, such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning). Medication can also be part of the treatment. In cases of advanced periodontitis, surgical procedures may be necessary.

Can Periodontitis be Cured?

All cases of periodontitis are treatable. Treatment can reverse the early stages of the disease. However, advanced periodontitis requires lifelong management and adapted care to prevent further damage.

How Can I Prevent Periodontitis?

Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and using interdental brushes, can help prevent periodontitis. Regular check-ups and cleanings at the dentist are also recommended. A healthy diet and avoiding tobacco are also essential factors.

Are Periodontal Treatments Painful?

Modern periodontitis treatments are primarily pain-free and use local anaesthesia and sedation options to make the treatment as comfortable and painless as possible.

Does Health Insurance Cover the Costs of Periodontitis Treatment?

Periodontal treatment coverage can vary depending on the insurance provider and plan. Therefore, it is advisable to check directly with your health insurance company about the details of your coverage.

How Often Should I Go for Follow-up Care?

The frequency of follow-up care depends on the severity of your periodontitis and risk profile. Many patients require regular check-ups and professional cleanings every three to six months after the initial treatment.

Periodontology: The foundation of dental health

The foundation of your dental health: healthy gums

The acute form of the common periodontal disease is periodontits. Many different factors, including genetic predisposition, smoking or systemic illness, cause periodontits. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria getting trapped in the pockets between the tooth and the gum. This can cause an inflammation of the gums, which leads to the destruction of the periodontium and the reduction of the bone compartment. As a consequence, teeth might become loose and even fall out. Prophylaxis such as professional tooth cleaning is vital to prevent periodontosis.

What possibilities does periodontology offer to limit the progression of periodontosis?

Periodontal disease can be prevented and contained by systemic dental cleaning of the roots of the teeth and by eliminating bacteria from the gingival pocket. Optimal oral hygiene and regular check-ups of the teeth and dentition are essential to achieve good results in treatment.

How is the treatment carried out?

Plaque is removed from the roots of the teeth using a high-frequency ultrasound device. Any roughness on the root surface is then smoothened with curettes (hand instruments) and the pockets are rinsed with a disinfecting solution. To reach the bacteria remaining in the pockets, a disinfecting gel is applied. The patient should rinse with a disinfecting solution twice a day before and after the treatment to achieve an optimal result and enhance the desired effect. Regular check-ups after the treatment will ensure lasting health. Use our recall system to get reminders for your upcoming check-ups in time.