Prognosis

Inflammatory processes in the area of the periodontium require urgent treatment, as the long-term consequences can have an enormous impact on both chewing ability and facial aesthetics. If periodontitis remains untreated for a longer period of time, the focus of inflammation will spread further. In most cases, the result is an irreversible loss of bone substance, and teeth that are actually perfectly healthy lose their hold and fall out.

In addition, the inflammation can spread from the bone to the roots of the teeth and attack and destroy the pulp and the nerve fibers stored in it. The prognosis for periodontitis is therefore correspondingly poor if suitable therapy is not provided. By carrying out the described treatment measures, the prognosis improves many times over.

In early stages, all teeth can usually be preserved. In addition, bone loss can be compensated by bone augmentation measures. Since the severe inflammation often results in receding gums, additional aesthetic measures are necessary for many patients. Artificially fabricated gum prostheses or gum transplantation can improve the appearance. In the course of the transplantation, the dentist usually removes a tissue flap in the area of the palate and fixes it to the exposed neck of the tooth.

Can periodontitis be cured permanently?

A permanent cure for periodontitis depends on the progression of the disease. In general, it can only be completely cured if periodontitis is detected in its early stages. For this reason it is very important to see a dentist as soon as the typical symptoms are detected.

Furthermore, regular (half-yearly) check-ups at the dentist can prevent the disease from breaking out. If the periodontitis is already advanced, the periodontitis treatment consists of several appointments as well as aftercare appointments at the dentist. The dentist removes the hard and soft plaque from the teeth and gum pockets.

Depending on the severity of the disease, an antibiotic is administered to permanently combat the bacteria causing the periodontitis.In general, the treatment goal is to try to stem the pathological (unhealthy) course of the disease and prevent its progression. However, it is true that periodontitis also causes bone resorption. Once bone is lost, it is not rebuilt. The soft tissues regenerate well, however, and the depth of the pockets can also be reduced with careful care.