Duration of the treatment

The treatment of periodontitis is divided into three chronologically separated sections. The pre-treatment usually consists of three appointments. During these appointments, a medical history is taken, an oral hygiene and periodontal status is established, the oral cavity is disinfected, hard and soft plaque is removed, instruction in comprehensive and correct oral hygiene at home is given and finally fluoridation is applied.

In the following section the actual periodontal therapy is carried out. These are two appointments, each lasting about 1-2 hours. Here, special instruments are used to remove the bacteria from the gum pockets, thereby cleaning the teeth and tooth necks.

Aftercare consists of 3-4 appointments per year, during which checks are made on the success or failure of the treatment. The first checkup takes place 6 weeks after the treatment. The second control is 6 weeks later.The treatment of periodontitis can therefore last several months.

Costs for the treatment of periodontitis

A prerequisite for the assumption of costs for periodontitis therapy by the health insurance company is that the periodontitis in question requires treatment. According to the health insurance companies this means a gum pocket depth of at least 3.5mm or more. Furthermore, there must be no tartar left and the patient must have been instructed in correct and extensive oral hygiene.

Subsequently, tartar must be removed in a pre-treatment and oral hygiene instructions must be given. This has to be paid by the patient himself and amounts to about 50 – 200 €. The actual periodontal therapy costs about 10 – 25 € per treated tooth and is fully covered by the patient depending on the service and health insurance.

A possible test to determine the existing bacteria costs approx. 50 – 80€ and has to be paid by the patient himself. Any antibiotic therapy is covered by the health insurance.

Is periodontitis contagious?

Periodontitis is an infectious disease and therefore contagious. Various studies have shown that the typical periodontitis bacteria can be transmitted both directly, for example when two partners kiss, and indirectly, for example by using the same toothbrush or cutlery. As soon as those affected notice typical symptoms and accompanying symptoms, more attention should be paid to preventing infection.

However, the disease does not break out in everyone who carries the bacteria. Your own immune system, current medication, stress, smoking or alcohol consumption are decisive in determining whether periodontitis develops. As soon as a family member is affected by periodontitis, it is recommended that the other family members are also tested and receive treatment if necessary.

This is also important to prevent a new infection, even if the periodontitis has not yet broken out. For prophylaxis, extensive daily oral hygiene (brushing, interdental brushes, dental floss, tongue cleaner) is very important. Furthermore, one can prevent developing diseases by regular control visits to the dentist.