Examination of the gums

Periodontitis: Disease of the Periodontium

Periodontitis - often imprecisely referred to colloquially as periodontal disease - is an inflammatory disease of the periodontium. It can occur at any age, on one or several teeth at the same time, progress at different rates and vary in severity.

The cause is bacteria that accumulate between the tooth and gum. If this bacterial plaque is not thoroughly removed, hard, rough tartar forms. If factors such as stress, smoking or other conditions are added, an inflammatory reaction can develop: the gums become red, swollen and prone to bleeding. Left untreated, periodontitis can lead to massive bone loss and tooth loss.

From Initial Therapy to Regeneration

Depending on the severity of the disease, we use different treatment steps.

Thorough cleaning of periodontal pockets

Initial Therapy

Periodontal pockets and root surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and smoothed under local anaesthetic - often entirely without cutting the gums.

Treatment of a periodontal defect

Regeneration with Enamel Matrix Proteins

In cases of advanced bone loss, we use enamel matrix proteins to support the natural rebuilding of the periodontium.

Rebuilding lost bone with substitute material

Guided Tissue Regeneration

Larger bone defects can be specifically rebuilt with the patient's own bone or artificial bone substitute material.

The Most Important Facts at a Glance

  • Periodontitis is a bacterially caused, inflammatory disease of the periodontium.
  • If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to bone loss and tooth loss.
  • Initial therapy thoroughly cleans periodontal pockets and root surfaces, often without cutting the gums.
  • In cases of advanced bone loss, enamel matrix proteins can support the natural regeneration of the periodontium.
  • Larger bone defects can be rebuilt with the patient's own bone or artificial substitute material.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is a superficial inflammation of the gums and often a precursor to periodontitis. In periodontitis, the deeper periodontium is already affected, which, if left untreated, can lead to bone loss.
Is periodontitis treatment painful?
Cleaning the periodontal pockets is performed under local anaesthetic and is generally well tolerated. Modern, minimally invasive techniques often make it possible to clean even deeper periodontal pockets without a major procedure.
Can bone lost due to periodontitis be rebuilt?
In many cases, yes. Guided tissue regeneration or the use of enamel matrix proteins can specifically promote the rebuilding of the periodontium.