WHAT IS PERIODONTITIS?
The periodontium (periodontal) consists of different structures surrounding the tooth that anchor the tooth in the bone. These include the alveolar bone, the gums and special fibers which establish the connection between the tooth and bone.

Periodontitis is a chronic disease caused by bacteria. As a result of inflammation of the periodontium, the tooth-bearing structures break down. As a result, teeth can become loose, which ultimately can lead to the need for treatment, and can even contribute to the loss of a once healthy tooth.

The emergence and progression of the disease can be adversely affected by many factors. Risk factors for periodontal disease include smoking, genetic predisposition and stress. If left untreated, periodontal disease can bring broader consequences for general health. The risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic inflammatory diseases, for example, is significantly increased if the condition is not treated properly.

WHAT ARE THE INDICATIONS OF PERIODONTITIS?
Often, periodontal disease develops unnoticed for years. On the other hand, more visible indications of the presence of periodontitis can be bad breath, bad taste in the mouth, tooth position change or “jiggling” teeth. Also, bleeding gums or spontaneously occurring acute inflammation of the gums may indicate periodontitis. Clinical and radiological diagnosis can provide information on the presence and severity of the disease. On the basis of these inputs, a treatment plan can be created.

HOW CAN YOU TREAT PERIODONTITIS ?
An essential prerequisite for the success of periodontal therapy is the optimization of oral hygiene. Through professional tooth cleaning and oral hygiene instruction by our dental hygienists, favorable conditions are created before treatment begins.

With professional periodontal therapy, the surfaces of the diseased root are cleaned of bacteria and their deposits, using special instruments. The treatment is performed under local anesthesia of the periodontium. This conservative approach to treatment is often sufficient to achieve a stable and non-inflammatory condition of the gums and dental supporting bone. In some cases, further measures are applied in order to address all issues and achieve long-term health of the gums.

To maintain successful and preventive treatment, supportive long-term care is required. Regular inspection and cleaning of the teeth by dental hygienists allows our long term therapy programme to prevent the recurrence and progression of this chronic disease.