Periodontitis therapy

Lasting gum health and strong teeth

Periodontitis is a widespread, chronic inflammatory disease of the periodontium that often begins unnoticed and can lead to serious consequences such as tooth loosening or even tooth loss if left untreated. It affects the gums, the supporting fibers and the jawbone and is the most common cause of tooth loss in adulthood after tooth decay. Periodontitis is caused by bacterial plaque that accumulates in the spaces between the teeth and under the gums. These bacteria trigger an immune reaction in the body, which damages the surrounding tissue in the long term.

The good news is that with early diagnosis and consistent treatment, periodontitis can be treated well and its progression can be significantly slowed down or even halted.

Causes and symptoms of periodontitis

The main cause of periodontitis is poor or inadequate oral hygiene. If plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens into tartar and provides an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. These release toxins that irritate the gums and cause inflammation. In the initial phase, this is referred to as gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), which is reversible. However, if this is not treated, the inflammation can spread to the deeper tissue, resulting in periodontitis.

The most common symptoms include

• Bleeding gums, especially when brushing your teeth or using dental floss

• Redness and swelling of the gums

• Gum recession - the teeth appear longer

• Formation of gingival pockets

• Loosening of the teeth

• Bad breath (halitosis) that persists despite oral hygiene

• Pain or feeling of pressure when chewing (in advanced stages)

The disease often goes unnoticed for a long time as it is initially painless. Regular dental check-ups are therefore essential for early detection.

Procedure for periodontitis therapy

The treatment of periodontitis is gradual and depends on the severity of the disease:

1. Examination and diagnosis
   Using periodontal status and x-rays, the dentist checks the condition of the gums, measures the depth of the gum pockets and documents the tendency to bleed and the degree of loosening of the teeth.

2. Dental cleaning
   Removes hard and soft plaque above and slightly below the gum line. The aim is to reduce the bacterial load and prepare for deeper measures.

3. Scaling & root planing
   Bacterial plaque and tartar are removed from the root surfaces below the gum line. The root is smoothened to make it more difficult for bacteria to re-accumulate.

4. Antibacterial measures
   In some cases, antibacterial rinsing solutions, gels or systemic antibiotics are also used to eliminate stubborn bacteria.

5. Surgical therapy (for advanced periodontitis)
   Surgical cleaning may be necessary for very deep periodontal pockets. This involves carefully opening the gums in order to clean the affected areas directly and remove any damaged tissue.

6. Aftercare and maintenance therapy
   Regular check-ups, close professional dental cleanings and consistent oral hygiene at home are crucial to ensure the long-term success of treatment and prevent relapses.
   

Prevention and long-term care

A healthy periodontium (healthy gums & healthy jawbone) can be permanently maintained through targeted preventive measures. These include:

• Thorough daily oral hygiene
  Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean the spaces between your teeth.

• Regular visits to the dentist
  At least twice a year for a check-up and, if necessary, for dental hygiene.

• Avoiding risk factors
  Smoking, stress and an unhealthy diet promote the development and progression of periodontitis. A conscious lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk.

• Keeping an eye on systemic diseases
  Periodontitis is associated with general diseases such as diabetes mellitus or cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion

Periodontitis is a serious disease that can have far-reaching consequences for your oral and general health if left untreated. However, early diagnosis and professional treatment offer the best chances of healing or stabilization and therefore lasting gum health. Regular follow-up care, thorough oral hygiene and targeted preventive measures can often preserve your own teeth for a lifetime. Seek individual advice from your dentist and take the first signs seriously - your strong teeth will thank you for it.