Periodontitis - inflammation of the gums

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of the periodontal tissues caused by bacterial plaque (biofilm). If left untreated, it can lead to gum pockets, bone loss, and ultimately loose teeth or tooth loss. Targeted treatment can halt the inflammatory process and ensure the stability of the teeth.

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis refers to inflammation of the periodontium—the tissue that anchors the teeth in the jaw—which includes the gums, the periodontal ligament, the fibers, and the jawbone. As periodontitis progresses, so-called gum pockets form, and bone loss can occur, causing the teeth to become loose.

Periodontitis treatment procedure

Diagnosis

Examination by the dentist, measuring the depth of gum pockets using a probe
X-rays to assess bone loss
Assessment of risk factors such as smoking or diabetes.

Pre-treatment

Professional teeth cleaning, removal of soft and hard plaque.
Discussion of lifestyle factors that could contribute to periodontitis (e.g., smoking, blood sugar).

Pocket therapy

Deep cleaning of the gum pockets, under local anesthesia if necessary.
Local or systemic antibiotics or other antimicrobial measures as needed.
In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to smooth the root or rebuild bone defects.

Healing phase & follow-up

After approximately 6–12 weeks: Follow-up to assess treatment success.
If pockets remain: further treatment as needed.

Long-term care (supportive periodontal therapy)

Lifelong follow-up care: regular gum checkups, pocket depth measurements, and professional cleanings.
Customized follow-up schedule based on risk profile.

Advantages of periodontitis treatment

The benefits of periodontitis treatment are clear:

Preservation of teeth: Treatment can halt bone loss and stabilize the periodontal ligament.
Improved oral health: Reduction of signs of inflammation such as bleeding gums, receding gum pockets, and bad breath.
Long-term management: Following treatment, supportive follow-up care with regular check-ups is provided to prevent relapses.
Positive effects on general health: Periodontitis is linked to systemic diseases—successful treatment can also have a positive impact on other health aspects, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or rheumatic diseases.
SSO informational flyer on the effects of periodontitis on other health aspects

Important notes

A rare, aggressive form of periodontitis is “juvenile periodontitis.” It can occur in adolescents between the ages of 10 and 20. It is recommended that you check with your health insurance provider to see if they will cover the costs.
Periodontitis (chronic) can progress very gradually: initially, there is often no pain, but significant damage to the periodontal tissues.
Risk factors such as smoking or poor blood sugar control (e.g., in diabetes) worsen the progression of the disease.
Good oral hygiene at home (daily brushing, interdental cleaning) is essential—dental treatment alone is not enough.
Follow-up care is crucial: without regular check-ups, there is an increased risk of relapse.