Periodontitis - recognising, treating, preventing

The cost depends on the steps involved and on which teeth are affected, so it differs from patient to patient. Before treatment begins, the practice draws up a treatment and cost plan setting out the charges. It also shows which costs the statutory health insurer covers and which additional services you have to pay for yourself.

An implant can last many years – what matters is how healthy the surrounding tissue stays. Anyone who has had periodontitis carries a higher risk: the same bacteria can attack the tissue around an implant. This is known as peri-implantitis.

Periodontitis should therefore be fully treated before an implant is placed. After that, aftercare decides the outcome: regular check-ups, professional cleaning and careful oral hygiene at home. On those terms, implants remain a reliable solution even after periodontitis.

Follow your dentist's instructions closely. They will tell you exactly what to watch out for.

A single application of enamel matrix proteins is normally sufficient. The regenerative process they set in motion continues over a longer period – often for more than a year.

Consistent oral hygiene is the key. Your practitioner will tell you whether further rules apply in your case – cutting down on smoking or giving it up, for instance.

Periodontal disease is usually caused by bacteria that settle between tooth and gum and trigger an inflammation. Existing systemic conditions such as diabetes, stress or inadequate oral hygiene can also influence how the disease progresses.

The first signs of periodontal disease are red, swollen gums, bleeding gums, receding gums, pain in the teeth and gums, loosened teeth, a bad taste in the mouth and bad breath.

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Bleeding gums can be a sign of periodontal disease. If it happens regularly, for example when brushing, you should consult your dentist.

During the active phase of treatment your dentist sets the intervals between appointments; depending on the stage of the disease these can be close together. Even without periodontal disease you should attend a check-up once or twice a year.

Detected in time, the progress of periodontal disease and the loss of one or more teeth can be prevented in most cases. If a tooth is already damaged beyond saving, removal is often the only option.

Connections exist with diabetes mellitus in particular, where poorly controlled blood sugar is a risk factor. Caries, stress or a generally weakened immune system can also encourage periodontitis. Periodontitis is in turn considered a risk factor for heart disease, for the premature birth of underweight babies and for arthritis. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can likewise trigger periodontal disease.

Gingivitis can be treated by improved and consistent oral hygiene. If gum problems persist, a dentist should always be consulted.

Depending on how far the periodontal disease has advanced and on the wish to keep the affected tooth, a surgical procedure may be unavoidable. Your dentist will tell you whether it is necessary in your case.

Yes, periodontitis can be transmitted – for example by sharing a toothbrush or cutlery, or by moistening a dummy in your own mouth.

Recent studies have shown that tissue rebuilt with the help of enamel matrix proteins was still stable after five years.

In the worst case, untreated periodontal disease leads to the loss of the affected tooth or teeth.