Periodontitis – Intensive Teeth Cleaning
Periodontitis: A Hidden Dental Danger That Can Threaten The Whole Body
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis, often referred to as “periodontal disease,” is caused by excess bacterial plaque. When bacteria multiply in the mouth, the body first reacts with gum inflammation (gingivitis). Subsequently, if gingivitis is not treated, periodontitis develops. These inflammatory processes gradually destroy the tissue and bone surrounding the tooth. As a result, the teeth become loose and fall out. Several studies have shown that if periodontal bacteria enter the bloodstream, the risk of heart attack, heart disease, diabetes, or premature birth increases, making periodontitis a serious health risk.
What causes periodontitis?
The main cause of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene. Aggravating negative factors are smoking, high stress, a weakened immune system, high blood sugar levels, hormonal changes, an unbalanced diet, specific vasodilators, or blood pressure-lowering drugs.
How is periodontitis diagnosed?
The dentist first performs a manual clinical examination of the teeth and surrounding tissue that takes into account the following markers:
- Periodontal Screening Index (PSI) helps determine if there are large gaps between the tooth and the gum (periodontal pockets) where bacterial plaque accumulates.
- Plaque Index (PI) provides information on the amount of plaque in the interdental spaces.
- Papilla Bleeding Index (PBI) specifies the level of gingival bleeding.
Periodontitis treatment by intensive professional teeth cleaning
If periodontitis is diagnosed, specific and more intensive treatments must be performed to avoid complications. Treatment of periodontitis can support the immune system and thus reduce the risk of disease.
How does a dentist treat periodontitis?
An intensive professional tooth cleaning combines care, protection, and regenerative measures. It focuses on the vulnerable soft tissue of the oral cavity. To remove bacterial plaque from the gingival pockets and exposed root surfaces, we use the particularly gentle Perio-Flow® procedure. This treatment simultaneously stimulates tissue regeneration, which can have a strengthening effect on your gums and thus reduce the depth of existing gingival pockets.
In addition, we will perform a professional dental cleaning, during which all tooth surfaces and dental restorations are cleaned and polished. We will show you tissue-friendly brushing techniques and advise you on the appropriate means of daily oral hygiene. Finally, we apply an enamel protector to remineralize your clean teeth.
Laser treatment is also possible. Read more about it here.