Periodontitis treatment in Essen

Periodontal therapy: Treating the gums and the tooth-supporting apparatus together

Healthy teeth require a stable foundation. This includes the gums, the jawbone, and the delicate structures connecting the tooth root to the bone. Periodontitis involves inflammation of this tooth-supporting apparatus. If left untreated, damage can occur, causing teeth to lose their stability. Therefore, the goal of periodontal therapy goes beyond simply achieving a clean feeling in the mouth: we aim to control the inflammation and preserve your natural teeth for as long as possible.

In everyday language, the condition is often referred to as “Parodontose.” The technically correct term is periodontitis. It must be distinguished from simple gum inflammation, known as gingivitis: gingivitis initially affects only the gums, whereas periodontitis also involves the tissues that support the teeth. We determine which condition is present through an examination; symptoms alone are not sufficient to make this distinction.

Which signs should be examined?

Bleeding gums during brushing, swollen gums, persistent bad breath, or receding gums can be warning signs. Teeth that are sensitive or becoming loose over time also warrant attention. However, periodontitis may cause little pain for an extended period. Therefore, do not wait until you experience severe symptoms. An examination helps identify the cause and avoids both unnecessary worry and the risk of overlooking changes that require treatment.

These fundamentals and typical signs are also described by the U.S. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR).

It starts with a clear assessment

We look at your entire situation, not just an individual gum pocket. The planning process includes reviewing your medical history, examining the supporting structures of the teeth, and taking measurements to document changes. Depending on the specific case, we evaluate existing X-rays or take new ones if necessary. Factors such as underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes), medication use, and smoking can be important for the assessment.

Our goal is for you to understand your diagnosis. Where is there inflammation? Which teeth require special attention? What can you do yourself? We explain the recommended steps, possible alternatives, and estimated costs before you make a decision. Please feel free to bring any questions or relevant documents to the consultation.

What does the treatment involve?

1. Discussing care and risks: We help you effectively remove plaque in your daily routine and find a suitable method for cleaning between your teeth. Modifiable risk factors are incorporated into the treatment plan.
2. Treating inflamed areas: Accessible soft and hard deposits on the root surfaces below the gumline are removed using appropriate instruments. The scope and procedure depend on the clinical findings.
3. Monitoring the healing process: After a healing period, we assess the tissue’s response. We then determine whether the treatment to date is sufficient or if specific areas require further measures.
4. Maintaining stability: Follow-up care helps detect new inflammation early and allows us to adjust your oral care routine to changing needs.

Not every case of periodontitis requires surgery. If deep pockets persist, targeted additional treatments may be appropriate. Such decisions are made following a check-up, rather than based on a single symptom alone. The Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) guidelines on periodontitis treatment provide an overview of the systematic approach.

At diadentis, treatment options include the ultrasonic removal of plaque from below the gumline. Depending on the clinical findings, surgical procedures, gum grafting, and bone regeneration may also be considered. Decisions regarding which steps are actually appropriate can only be made after the examination.

What role do lasers and additional procedures play?

At diadentis, laser therapy may be used as a supplement to periodontal treatment if the clinical findings warrant it. The specific approach, expected benefits, limitations, and alternatives will be discussed with you beforehand. “Laser therapy” encompasses various procedures; therefore, no general benefit can be assumed. The 2020 EFP S3 guideline does not recommend the routine use of lasers or specific photodynamic procedures as an adjunct to subgingival cleaning. Mechanical treatment and aftercare remain fundamental. EFP guideline, recommendations 2.4 and 2.5.

Why aftercare is part of the therapy

Supportive periodontal therapy, known in Germany as UPT, aims to maintain the results achieved. It combines follow-up measurements, cleaning tailored to your needs and practical advice for home care. The intervals depend on your individual risk and the condition of the tissues supporting your teeth. Regular care therefore remains important even when your mouth feels comfortable again. The EFP describes this long-term care as a separate stage of treatment.

Prevention, periodontal therapy and follow-up care share a common goal, but each has a different role. We help you understand which appointment is appropriate for your situation. Treatment is a shared effort: we provide professional diagnostics and care, while you support the results through a practical daily routine at home. Find out more under prevention and prophylaxis.