Periodontitis Self-Test: Recognise Gum Disease Early
This interactive risk check helps you identify risk factors and early warning signs of periodontitis. Digital diagnostics — DVT, intraoral scan, AI-assisted analysis — enables precise early detection at the Institute that surpasses classical methods.
Contents of this guide
Periodontitis Self-Test: What It Offers
Periodontitis is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults — and often progresses without symptoms for a long time. This self-test helps you identify risk factors and early warning signs. It does not replace professional diagnosis but provides structured orientation.
What this test offers
- • Structured capture of risk factors
- • Recognition of early symptoms
- • Decision aid for a medical appointment
- • Awareness of warning signs
Limitations
- • No substitute for periodontal charting
- • No information on pocket depths
- • No substitute for DVT bone analysis
- • No therapy recommendation possible
See a doctor immediately for: loose teeth, pus at the gum, acute pain or severe swelling.
Interactive Risk Check
Answer all 10 questions honestly. Each question has a weighting according to its clinical relevance.
1.Does your gum bleed when brushing or spontaneously?
2.Do you have gum recession (teeth appear longer than before)?
3.Do you have bad breath that persists despite brushing?
4.Do you have loose teeth or changed tooth position?
5.Do you have pain when chewing or touching your gums?
6.Do you smoke or have you smoked in the past?
7.Do you have diabetes (type 1 or 2)?
8.Is there a family history of early tooth loss?
9.Was your last professional dental cleaning more than 12 months ago?
10.Have you noticed pus or swelling at the gum?
Digital Periodontitis Diagnostics at the Institute
The Institute for Implantology and Digital Dentistry Vienna uses fully digital periodontitis diagnostics that go beyond classical probing:
Digital Periodontal Charting
Electronic recording of all pocket depths, bleeding points and furcation findings. Automatic follow-up documentation for therapy monitoring.
DVT / CBCT (3D X-ray)
Three-dimensional representation of bone loss. Detects interradicular defects and furcation involvement invisible on 2D.
Intraoral Scan
Digital impressions for precise follow-up checks. Documents gum changes over time without radiation exposure.
AI-Assisted Risk Analysis
Systemic risk factors (diabetes, smoking, genetics) are integrated into treatment planning. Individualised recall interval.
Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor Immediately
Loose teeth
Indicate advanced bone loss — immediate diagnostics necessary
Pus or abscess at the gum
Acute infection requires immediate treatment, possibly antibiotics
Acute severe pain
May indicate necrotising periodontitis or abscess
Sudden tooth migration
Rapid changes in tooth position indicate aggressive periodontitis
Severe gum swelling
Especially one-sided swellings require immediate assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a bacterial inflammation of the periodontium (gums, jawbone, periodontal ligament). It is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults and has systemic effects on cardiovascular disease, diabetes and pregnancy.
How is periodontitis diagnosed digitally?
Digital diagnostics include DVT (3D representation of bone loss), digital periodontal charting (pocket depths, bleeding on probing), intraoral scan for follow-up checks and AI-assisted risk analysis. These methods enable more precise diagnosis than classical methods.
Is periodontitis curable?
Periodontitis is not fully curable but controllable. With professional treatment (scaling, root planing, possibly surgical procedures) and consistent aftercare, the disease can be halted. Early detection significantly improves prognosis.
Can periodontitis affect implant treatment?
Yes — active periodontitis is a relative contraindication for implants. Before implantation, periodontitis must be treated and stabilised. Untreated periodontitis significantly increases the risk of peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant).
Further Guides
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Periodontology at the Institute
Diagnostics, treatment, aftercare
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Digital Diagnostics: DVT & Intraoral Scan
How digital technology improves diagnosis
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Implantology Eligibility Check
Periodontitis and implant suitability
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Digital Periodontal Diagnostics
CBCT, intraoral scan & bone loss detection
Clinical Partner
Consultation at Smile4Life
For a clinical assessment of your individual situation — in Vienna, 1010.
Medical note: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice from a licensed dentist or specialist. The Institute for Implantology and Digital Dentistry Vienna is a non-profit, independent scientific platform — not a treatment facility. All content reflects current scientific literature; individual treatment decisions must always be made in consultation with a qualified dental professional.