Recording the findings in periodontal disease
First comes an examination to record the findings and the medical history, in which existing conditions are asked about.
A thorough examination comes first. Besides the acute complaints, the practice asks about previous conditions – diabetes and high blood pressure matter particularly here – about medication taken and about habits such as smoking.
What is measured
Clinical and radiographic findings are recorded: the depth of every gum pocket is measured and the course of the bone documented on the radiograph. Together they determine the stage of the disease – and from that, which treatment is indicated.
The genetic test
If periodontitis occurs despite careful oral hygiene, a test can show whether there is a familial predisposition. What is examined is the genetic material of the bacteria that trigger the inflammation. The result influences how closely the case is monitored.
From findings to plan
The examination yields the diagnosis, and the diagnosis the treatment plan, which sets out every further step. One thing cannot be substituted: the patient's cooperation. Regenerative treatment of damaged teeth stretches over months, and without careful oral hygiene at home it does not hold.
Answered briefly
Frequently asked questions
Six sites are probed at every tooth: the depth of the periodontal pocket, bleeding on probing and the loss of attachment. Degrees of mobility are added, and radiographs where needed.
The probe measures the soft tissue. How much bone has actually been lost, and whether the loss is horizontal or funnel-shaped, is shown only by the radiograph – and that determines which procedures come into consideration.
A laboratory analysis of the bacteria from the pocket. It comes into consideration where the disease progresses despite good oral hygiene, or where a decision about accompanying antibiotics has to be made – not as a routine.