What is periodontitis and how does it occur?
Periodontitis is a disease of the gums and jawbones. Research has shown that more than 80 % of the population suffer from this. After the age of 40, more teeth are lost in this way than through caries. Bacterial dental plaque inflames the gum tissue. This results in gum pockets. In the end the jawbone recedes, the teeth lose their grip and fall out.
Augmentation can save teeth
Thanks to modern periodontology and surgery, not only can we arrest gum diseases, but, in many cases, bone and tissue can be reconstructed and regenerated. This gives teeth a firm hold again. Augmentation refers to measures of bone and tissue formation. There are studies that show that untreated periodontitis has effects on the entire organism. The risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke increases by a factor of three.
During periodontitis treatment, the biofilm - a mesh of bacteria and hard deposits under the gum tissue - is gently removed under anaesthetic using ultrasonic devices and hand instruments. To assist, we offer Photo-ACtivated Therapy (PACT) where bacteria are killed with the aid of a harmless colouring agent and light of a specific wavelength. The inflammation, reddening and bleeding disappear. This is the prerequisite for healthy gums and the basis for all further treatment in our surgery.
Fields of application for bone augmentation and bone regeneration
- Tooth preservation in the case of advanced periodontitis
- Prior to inserting implants when not enough bone is present
- Bone augmentation in the course of tooth extraction
Despite advanced treatment methods, not every tooth can be preserved. But the earlier the treatment is started, the higher the chances. Optimum oral hygiene is the most important prerequisite for the long-term success of any tooth preserving measure.