Periodontitis treatment

What is periodontitis?

Bacterial plaque causes inflammation at the gum line (gingivitis), which can spread to the entire tooth anchorage (periodontitis). Bone loss causes so-called periodontal pockets to form at the gum line, and teeth to become loose and even lose the teeth.

As a result of inflammation of the gum line (gingivitis), the anchoring fibers and jawbone can break down. Instead of the healthy fiber apparatus, a so-called gum pocket forms along the tooth. The root surface there is covered with bacterial deposits (plaque and tartar).

The breakdown of the anchoring fibers and the jawbone can lead to increased tooth mobility. If the disease remains undetected and untreated, the breakdown can continue to the point where the teeth become unusable for chewing and have to be pulled (extracted).

Around 40 percent of humanity suffers from periodontitis. For the adult population, it is estimated that around 70% of tooth loss today is due to periodontitis.

Symptoms of periodontitis

1. Bleeding gums: A common symptom is bleeding gums, especially while brushing or flossing.

2. Redness and swelling of the gums: The gums may be red, swollen and tender.

3. Bad breath: Periodontitis can lead to persistent bad breath that does not go away despite thorough oral hygiene.

4. Receding gums: The gums recede, making the teeth appear longer. The exposed tooth necks are often sensitive to heat, cold or touch.

5. Loosening of teeth: Advanced periodontitis can lead to loss of periodontal tissue and bone, resulting in loosening of teeth.

6. Gum pockets: Deep gum pockets form between the gums and teeth and are filled with bacteria and plaque.

How can periodontitis be treated?

During professional tooth cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist systematically cleans all tooth surfaces. Cleaning and smoothing the bacteria-infested root surfaces under the gum line is particularly important in periodontitis. All obstacles that could make optimal oral hygiene at home difficult are also removed. This includes, in particular, tartar deposits above the gum line and protruding crown or filling edges.

A first professional tooth cleaning can rarely be done in one session. For patients with advanced periodontitis, several appointments are scheduled for professional tooth cleaning.

You can book a professional teeth cleaning here . You can find more information in our knowledge database " SmileTalk ".