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Starting treatment: findings and screening

Reine Zahnreinigung reicht bei einer Parodontitis nicht mehr aus. Nur eine Parodontalbehandlung in der Praxis kann einen Stillstand der Entzündung bewirken

If an examination shows that the tooth-supporting apparatus needs treatment, a detailed conversation comes first: about oral hygiene at home, about possible causes and about the steps that follow.

The periodontal screening index

To assess the state of the periodontium, the periodontal screening index – PSI for short – is recorded. It also serves early detection: changes show up in it before they cause any discomfort.

How the measurement works

A blunt probe is passed around each tooth. Two things are recorded: how deep the gum pocket is at that point and whether the gum bleeds in the process. Together they give a picture of how far the disease has progressed and which treatment is indicated.