Do you have questions about our practice, making an appointment or what to expect at your first visit?. We explain everything clearly and concisely. Our practice stands for personal attention and expert care. See the answers to the most common general questions.
FAQ Algemeen
Periodontology focuses on the health of your gums and jawbone. Gum problems often go unnoticed, but are very treatable. We answer questions about causes, symptoms and treatments. So you know exactly where you stand.
Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. Would you like to know how it works and what to expect?. We give a clear explanation of the process from intake consultation to placement. See the most frequently asked questions about dental implants here.
Frequently Asked Questions
An abscess causes swelling, throbbing pain, pus and sometimes a fever.
Tooth mobility means that a tooth or molar is looser in the jaw than it should be.
Biofilm is the scientific term for organised plaque.
A periodontist is a dentist with additional training in gum treatment.
The removal of one root from a molar that has several roots.
An opening between the mouth and the maxillary sinus created during a procedure.
The partial removal of the dental pulp, often in children.
A procedure to correct a lip or tongue tie that is too tight.
The surgical removal of the root tip and the surrounding inflamed tissue.
If you have persistently bleeding gums, receding gums or loose teeth.
It is advisable to see an implantologist in the case of tooth loss, dentures that do not stay in place, or complex dental situations.
Pain, swelling, fever and sometimes pus formation are important warning signs.
Pain when biting and sensitivity to changes in temperature are typical.
Medication, medical conditions or dehydration are common causes.
By unscrewing the screws or breaking the cement bond.
Immediate placement of a temporary prosthesis on implants.
An implant-retained overdenture is a removable denture that clips onto implants.
An all-ceramic structure without a metal framework.
Smaller implants used to stabilise loose dentures.
A fixed replacement for missing teeth using implants.
A fixed replacement for 2-4 missing teeth using 2-3 implants.
A design that allows a removable denture to be fitted in the future.
A temporary acrylic or composite bridge used during the healing phase.
A sinus lift is a bone augmentation procedure in the upper jaw to make implants possible.
An acrylic or composite bridge for use during osseointegration.
An implant-retained overdenture that is secured on 2-4 implants but remains removable.
A special implant for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
Guided surgery uses 3D planning to place implants with precision.
A crown replaces one tooth; a bridge replaces several teeth using one or more implants.
An implant that is placed immediately after a tooth is extracted.
An artificial tooth mounted on a dental implant.
A fixed reconstruction of a complete dental arch anchored on 4-8 implants.
Depending on the cause: replacing the screw, re-cementing or making a new bridge.
With a screw connection or dental cement, depending on the type of crown.
Through surgical implant placement followed by fitting of the prosthesis after healing.
Using angled abutments, bone grafting procedures or a complete revision.
At least 2 implants for a bridge of 3-4 teeth.
Guided surgery is particularly suitable for complex cases and limited bone structure, but it is not always necessary.
On average 15-20 years with good maintenance and a healthy mouth.
An angle correction that connects implants at the optimal angle.
An agent that promotes bone formation around implants.
A computer-designed precision bridge made by 3D printing or milling.
A bridge with a free-end tooth that is supported only by implants.
A bridge made using CAD/CAM on the basis of 3D scans.
Immediate placement of a temporary bridge after implant insertion, without a waiting period.
Flap surgery opens up the area around the implant so it can be cleaned when there is inflammation.
Peri-implantitis is an inflammation around a dental implant that causes bone loss.
It is not advised during the first 2 weeks because of pressure changes.
Commonly used techniques are bone grafting, sinus lift and guided bone regeneration (GBR).
3 to 9 months, depending on bone augmentation and healing.
A technique in which a complete jaw is supported on four implants.
A complete jaw reconstruction supported by six implants.
A combination of a metal framework and acrylic teeth, for affordability.
A fixed full-arch construction that combines acrylic teeth with a metal framework.
A fixed prosthesis on 4 to 6 implants that cannot be removed by the patient.
The number of implants (4 vs 6) and the stability and bone requirements.
The long lifespan and minimal maintenance costs make the full-arch bridge a cost-effective choice.
Untreated periodontitis, uncontrolled diabetes and heavy smoking.
Zirconia, metal-ceramic and PMMA, depending on durability and aesthetics.
Fixed function, better chewing power and a more natural feel.
A full-arch bridge offers stability, a natural appearance and comfort without having to remove it every day.
To a limited extent, through occlusal adjustments or complete replacement.
3 to 9 months, depending on bone augmentation and healing time.
Daily interdental cleaning and professional check-ups.
Daily interdental cleaning and professional check-ups.
Through a trial set-up, pressure checks and X-ray verification.
Full-arch bridges restore natural chewing function and aesthetics, which boosts self-confidence.
Using 3D CBCT scans, digital wax-ups and computer-guided implant surgical guides.
By unscrewing the screw connections and fitting a new prosthesis.
Using pink ceramic or surgical gum correction.
At least 4, ideally 6 to 8, depending on bone quality and jaw shape.
Usually 4 to 6 implants, depending on bone quality and jaw shape.
Full-arch bridges use zirconia, metal-ceramic or titanium for strength and natural aesthetics.
Check your supplementary dental insurance or ask your health insurer.
Only where there is a medical indication or with supplementary insurance.
Sometimes, depending on your insurance and medical necessity.
€4,000 to €12,000, depending on the number of implants and the choice of material.
Think of consultations, X-rays, temporary crowns and aftercare.
€10,000 to €35,000, depending on complexity and material.
€15,000 to €50,000, depending on complexity and the materials used.
Costs range from €10,000 to €30,000, depending on complexity.
Costs average between €2,000 and €4,000, depending on the situation.
Costs vary depending on the technique used, the choice of material and the complexity of the procedure.
20 to 40% cheaper than separate crowns per replaced tooth.
Reimbursement for implants varies because of policy conditions and supplementary insurance.
Aftercare after implant placement is sometimes reimbursed, depending on your insurance.
Daily interdental cleaning and six-monthly professional check-ups.
Contact your clinician straight away for an assessment.
A loose implant may indicate bone loss or peri-implantitis; contact your clinician straight away.
Good oral hygiene prevents inflammation around the implant, such as peri-implantitis.
Light activity is fine, but intensive training is not recommended during the first week.
Yes, but allow enough recovery time and discuss it with your clinician.
Yes, although it remains sensible to be careful with extremely hard foods.
A well-integrated implant feels stable and does not hurt.
Brush gently and temporarily avoid hard or sticky foods.
Brush gently and follow the specific rinsing instructions.
Daily interdental cleaning and professional check-ups.
Poor cleaning can lead to inflammation and loss of the implant.
Although guided surgery is highly accurate, complications can arise from incorrect planning or guide positioning.
A procedure to rebuild jawbone in preparation for implants.
Only if you are being treated under sedation or general anaesthesia.
Yes, it is often possible to place several implants in a single session.
Yes, titanium implants are MRI-safe.
Yes, provided there are enough implants and sufficient bone support.
Yes, it stabilises the dentition and prevents teeth from drifting after treatment.
Yes, provided there is enough space and enough implants for additional support.
Yes, using bar, ball or Locator attachments.
Bone grafting treatment rebuilds lost jawbone so that implants can be placed successfully.
A completely metal-free construction made of high-quality ceramic.
Implantology focuses on replacing missing teeth with artificial roots (implants).
Many clinics offer a guarantee on implant integration and material defects for full-arch treatments.
Peri-implantitis, screw fracture and overloading are the main risks.
Peri-implantitis, mechanical fractures and overloading are the main complications.
Immediately loaded implants give a quick aesthetic result without a long healing period.
Guided surgery offers greater precision, shorter surgery time and fewer post-operative complications.
A conventional bridge, a removable denture or single implants.
A list of your medication, your referral letter and any relevant medical records are important.
The first check-up after implant placement takes place within one to two weeks.
Yes, this is called immediate implantation, but it depends on the situation.
Yes, in some cases immediate placement is possible, provided the bone is suitable.
A well-maintained implant can last for decades, depending on oral hygiene.
The procedure itself usually takes 30 to 60 minutes per implant.
3-8 months, depending on bone augmentation and healing.
Inflammation around an implant, known as peri-implantitis, causes redness, swelling and bleeding.
Make sure your oral hygiene is good, eat in good time and arrange transport if necessary.
It doubles the risk of failure through reduced blood flow and healing.
Smoking increases the risk of peri-implantitis through impaired healing and bacterial build-up.
It restores lip support, reduces wrinkles and prevents sunken cheeks.
Planning starts with a CBCT scan and digital analysis to design a surgical guide.
A scan or X-ray shows whether there is enough bone volume.
Using articulating paper, T-Scan and digital occlusal analysis.
Yes, an implant can become inflamed if it is not cleaned properly (peri-implantitis).
Yes, in suitable cases immediate placement is possible.
It is rare, but fracture can occur under extreme loading or due to material problems.
No, but inflammation can lead to its loss.
No, ceramic does not respond to bleaching agents.
Yes, provided the abutment teeth are no longer healthy or need to be extracted.
With good care, an implant can last for decades.
In most cases the implant has to be removed and replaced.
Low bone density requires more implants or bone substitute material.
It requires bone augmentation or alternative implant techniques for stability.
A crown covers the whole tooth, a veneer only the front surface.
A bridge is fixed, a partial denture is removable.
A combination of a fixed bridge and a removable denture.
Crucial for precision design, choice of materials and the aesthetic result.
Yes, provided your own teeth are healthy and can serve as abutments.
No, it requires complete replacement because of changing facial contours.
With composite restorations or complete crown replacement, depending on the damage.
It restores chewing function, speech and self-confidence through a natural appearance.
Using intraoral scans, trial frameworks and occlusal checks.
On average 3-9 months, depending on bone quality and healing.
An implant crown requires careful oral hygiene to prevent inflammation.
Fixed in place, a more natural feel and better chewing function.
Persistent pain, swelling and sometimes a discharge of pus are warning signs.
An intensive professional dental cleaning that reaches below the gum line.
A deep cleaning below the gums without surgery.
A procedure in which healthy gum tissue is moved to a damaged area.
A procedure to expose more of the tooth for restorative or aesthetic purposes.
Laser treatment removes inflamed tissue and bacteria using light energy.
A procedure in which deep periodontal pockets are surgically reduced.
A treatment to reduce deep spaces between the tooth and the gums.
A treatment aimed at restoring lost tissue or bone.
A procedure in which healthy gum tissue is moved to an area of gum recession.
A technique in which the graft is slid under the gums through a small opening.
To determine whether the treatment is working and whether further steps are needed.
Flap surgery is a surgical procedure; closed (non-surgical) treatment is not.
Scaling & root planing goes deeper and targets inflamed gums.
Post-operative pain, swelling or infection may occur, but these are rare.
Stopping smoking improves blood flow, reduces inflammation and lowers the risk of periodontal problems.
Persistent pain, swelling or pus may indicate complications.
Scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar below the gum line.
A surgical cleaning of deep periodontal pockets in advanced periodontitis.
Contact the practice; it is usually not serious, but it does need to be checked.
Anxiety-reduction techniques such as relaxation exercises and good communication help to reassure patients.
Usually 1-2 weeks, but it can sometimes last longer.
Recovery can vary from a few months to six months, depending on the technique and your state of health.
Swelling peaks at 2-3 days and then gradually subsides.
Soft food is usually recommended for 2 to 5 days.
Yes, you always receive a written estimate for your treatment.
Yes, a local anaesthetic is usually given for your comfort.
Intensive exercise is not advised in the first few days after the procedure.
Better not in the first 24 hours because of interactions with medication.
Usually yes after a local anaesthetic, but not after sedation or general anaesthesia.
Yes, unless you are being treated under general anaesthesia or sedation.
Sensitive tooth necks or temporary irritation may be the cause.
Good communication prevents conflicting advice and ensures a consistent approach to treatment.
Postponing periodontal treatment can lead to serious dental problems and tooth loss.
A splint stabilises loose teeth during the healing process.
Temporary looseness is due to reduced inflammation and tissue healing.
Less bleeding, shallower pockets and pink gums are positive signs.
Yes, many practices offer payment plans.
Yes, you will always receive a written estimate.
Depending on the severity, usually between €100 and €800.
Usually not, unless it is specifically covered by your supplementary insurance.
Periodontal treatment is usually reimbursed, depending on your health insurance and supplementary policy.
Yes, often they are, depending on your health insurance and supplementary policy.
Yes, often it is, depending on your health insurance and supplementary policy.
Cannabis use can cause dry mouth and reduced blood flow to the gums, which encourages inflammation.
Drug use can lead to dry mouth, tooth wear and an increased risk of gum inflammation.
Drug use can worsen gum inflammation and cause tooth decay through dry mouth and poor oral care.
Sugary foods encourage bacterial growth, which can worsen inflammation and periodontitis.
Alcohol can suppress the immune system, allowing gum infections to develop more easily.
Yes, prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption considerably increases the risk of oral cancer.
Methamphetamine causes dry mouth, teeth grinding and poor oral hygiene, which worsens gum problems.
Cocaine can constrict the blood vessels in the gums, causing inflammation to worsen more quickly.
Smokers have an increased risk of periodontitis, peri-implantitis and delayed wound healing.
Antihistamines can cause dry mouth, which can encourage gum inflammation.
Blood thinners can make gum bleeding worse, especially after oral hygiene or dental procedures.
Cardiovascular disease can cause circulation problems, which makes gum healing more difficult.
Sometimes, but only in consultation with your doctor or specialist.
Immunosuppressants reduce the body's defences, which increases the risk of gum inflammation.
Medicines such as phenytoin and ciclosporin can cause gum tissue to enlarge, a condition known as gingival hyperplasia.
Antidepressants can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of gum inflammation.
Diuretics can lead to a dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis.
Medicines such as blood pressure medication, anticonvulsants and immunosuppressants can cause gum problems.
Yes, usually because of infection, overloading or poor oral hygiene.
Interdental cleaning removes plaque from between the teeth, which is essential for preventing periodontitis.
Usually after one to two weeks, depending on wound healing and the instructions you are given.
The dental hygienist focuses on preventive care, professional cleaning and education about oral hygiene.
Plaque is a soft layer of bacteria; tartar is hardened plaque.
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and using an electric toothbrush is recommended.
Risks include infection, insufficient bone growth and loss of the graft, especially with poor oral hygiene.
Daily oral hygiene, a healthy diet and regular dental check-ups are essential.
Only a dentist or periodontist can determine this, using measurements and X-rays.
The dentist refers you to the periodontist for specialist treatment of severe inflammation.
Multidisciplinary care provides an integrated approach, which improves treatment outcomes.
Dental anxiety or previous negative experiences can stop patients from seeking care.
The periodontist can recommend stress management techniques and a mouthguard to limit damage.
Stitches are usually removed after 7 to 14 days.
Yes, but only on your clinician's advice and with suitable products.
No, the gums must be healthy first for whitening to be safe.
Yes, you will receive adapted instructions for safe brushing.
Brushing is usually allowed from day 2, following specific instructions.
Aftercare includes check-ups, professional dental cleaning and instruction in home care.
A technique for repairing bone loss using membranes and bone grafts.
GTR is a technique in which the jawbone and supporting tissue are stimulated to regenerate.
Persistent bleeding after treatment can indicate complications; always consult your dentist.
Smoking is strongly discouraged because it hinders the healing process.
No, the suction can disturb blood clots and delay healing.
Alcohol is not recommended in the first few days after treatment.
Healing after flap surgery generally takes several weeks, depending on the severity of the situation.
A few days to a few weeks, depending on the initial inflammation.
On average 4 to 6 months for full bone integration.
The first 24 to 48 hours are crucial for healing and recovery.
Brush gently and use the prescribed mouth rinses.
Yes, stopping smoking improves the blood supply and promotes healing of the gums.
Probiotics can help to improve the balance of bacteria in the mouth and reduce inflammation.
Supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc can contribute to better recovery after surgery.
Usually not; aftercare is charged separately or billed as part of a treatment programme.
With periodontal pocket measurements, X-rays and a clinical examination.
Indirectly: the bacteria can be passed on, especially within families.
Yes, it can be painless and only be discovered at a check-up.
Yes, genetic predisposition plays a role in susceptibility to periodontitis.
Yes, with a predisposition or other risk factors, periodontitis can develop even without visible tartar.
Professional cleaning removes tartar and stubborn dental plaque that cannot be removed at home.
Periodontology is the dental specialty concerned with the gums and the supporting tissues around the teeth.
Untreated periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and affect general health.
Techniques such as breathing exercises, exercise and mindfulness can lower stress and promote oral health.
Stress can slow healing and intensify inflammatory responses, which makes treatment more difficult.
Motivation determines whether patients follow their oral care instructions and seek care regularly.
Stress reduction helps to reduce inflammatory responses and to support the recovery process.
Stress can lead to tooth grinding, gum inflammation, dry mouth and broken teeth.
Being overweight can increase the risk of periodontitis through inflammatory responses and a disturbed hormone balance.
Stress can intensify inflammatory responses and weaken the defence against gum infections.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can promote gum inflammation.
Sometimes partially, through supplementary dental insurance, where there is a medical need.
A detailed overview of the health of your gums and jawbone.
A quick check of the condition of your gums and supporting tissues.
An acute infection in a periodontal pocket, often painful and swollen.
A surgical procedure to remove excess gum tissue.
Inflammation between the roots of a molar, which is often difficult to clean.
A fistula is an opening through which pus from an infection can drain away.
Saliva protects the teeth by neutralising acids and remineralising the enamel.
Diabetes increases the risk of periodontitis, and vice versa.
The PSI score indicates how inflamed the gums are and whether periodontal pockets are present.
A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure to remove excess gum tissue.
Spontaneous bleeding can indicate inflammation or periodontitis; always have it checked.
It can indicate active inflammation or an abscess.
Inflammation or trauma can cause swelling that makes a tooth seem higher.
Bad breath can indicate gum inflammation or deep periodontal pockets.
Natural ageing, wear and reduced saliva production increase the risk of gum problems.
An inflammation around a partially erupted wisdom tooth.
A system for assessing the severity of receding gums.
To map the health of the gums and supporting tissues.
Foods rich in vitamin C, calcium and antioxidants promote healthy gums.
Vitamin D aids calcium absorption and strengthens bone and gums, which helps to prevent periodontitis.
Vitamin C supports collagen production and helps to restore healthy gums.
Weight loss reduces systemic inflammation, which benefits the health of the gums.
Receding gums, loss of collagen and reduced blood flow can cause gum problems.
Older people more often suffer from receding gums, dry mouth and tooth loss due to periodontitis.
Smoking, poor oral hygiene, stress, diabetes and genetic predisposition increase the risk.
Periodontal pockets are deepened spaces between the tooth and the gum caused by inflammation or bone loss.
Bleeding gums, an unpleasant taste, receding gums and loose teeth.
On average between €50 and €120, depending on complexity.
Gum recession is the receding of the gums, which exposes the necks of the teeth.
A complex layer of bacteria that attaches to the teeth and gums.
Gingivitis is a superficial inflammation; periodontitis also affects the jawbone.
Gingivitis is a superficial gum inflammation; periodontitis also affects the jawbone.
The aim is to stop gum inflammation and preserve your teeth.
A soft brush prevents damage to the healing gums.
A weakened immune system is less effective at fighting bacteria, which promotes gum inflammation.
High blood sugar levels can promote inflammation and slow down wound healing, which makes gum problems worse.
Many gum problems are painless; a check-up is essential.
Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if it is worn, to prevent a build-up of bacteria.
Recognising gum problems early is essential to prevent complications.
Regular oral care, consulting your doctor and adjusting your oral hygiene can limit the problems.
Good oral care reduces the bacterial load and helps to maintain the natural resistance of the gums.
Nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D and antioxidants help to keep the gums strong as we age.
Protein is essential for tissue repair, and a shortage can slow down the healing of the gums.
Bleeding gums and bad breath are early warning signs.
The neck of the tooth becomes exposed and the teeth appear longer.
By red, swollen or bleeding gums, often without any pain.
A painful swelling, redness and sometimes a discharge of pus are the typical signs.
Pain, clicking sounds and limited mouth opening are typical symptoms.
Early gum inflammation causes redness, swelling and bleeding when brushing.
Early periodontitis is characterised by red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing.
Antibacterial mouth rinses can lower the bacterial load and help to prevent inflammation.
Jawbone loss is usually discovered through X-rays and pocket measurements.
With special instruments during a deep cleaning or periodontal treatment.
Usually it is, but it can also be caused by brushing too hard.
Alcohol use can reduce motivation and attention to oral care, which makes gum problems worse.
High-fibre food stimulates saliva production and helps to wash away bacteria and food debris.
Periodontal screening helps to detect gum problems and bone loss at an early stage.
People with obesity have a higher risk of periodontal inflammation due to systemic inflammation.
Regular periodontal check-ups prevent serious gum problems and help to preserve the health of your teeth.
Healthy gums support your teeth and prevent inflammation.
Smoking reduces the blood supply and slows down the healing of the gums after treatment.
Smoking reduces the blood supply to the gums and weakens the defence against bacterial infections.
Being overweight increases the risk of periodontitis through systemic inflammation and insulin resistance.
Pain when chewing after periodontal treatment can indicate temporary inflammation or pressure.
Long-term use of painkillers can mask inflammation and slow down wound healing.
Antibiotics can disrupt the oral flora, which sometimes leads to fungal infections or gingivitis.
Yes, many gum problems are painless and are only noticed at a late stage.
Yes, deficiencies in vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc can weaken the gums and promote inflammation.
Yes, depression can lead to reduced self-care and in turn cause gum problems.
Diabetes increases the risk of gum inflammation through reduced immune defence and delayed wound healing.
Yes, periodontitis can trigger inflammatory responses that disrupt blood sugar levels.
Yes, in people who are overweight, periodontitis can contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Because of reduced immune defences and poorer wound healing, people with diabetes are more susceptible to periodontitis.
Periodontitis can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Periodontitis can have consequences for general health, including cardiovascular disease.
The GP monitors general health, while the periodontist focuses on oral health in the context of systemic problems.
Yes, chronic inflammation caused by periodontitis can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Chronic inflammation can increase the risk of heart problems.
The first consultation usually takes between 45 and 75 minutes.
Yes, X-rays or scans are usually taken.
An examination is carried out and a treatment plan is drawn up.
Your gum health is assessed and a treatment plan is drawn up.
Your wishes, health and jaw structure are discussed in detail.
Bring a valid ID, your insurance details and a list of your medication.
The treatment plan is often drawn up shortly after the first consultation.
Usually not yet; the situation is assessed first.
In many cases you can make an appointment directly.
Often partially, through supplementary dental insurance, but not from basic health insurance.

