What is Periodontology?
Periodontology is a specialization within dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases. A periodontist treats the periodontium or the supporting tissue of the teeth: the gums, the jawbone, and the fibers that hold the tooth roots in the jawbone.
What Does a Periodontist Do?
The periodontist focuses on the treatment, diagnosis, and prevention of all conditions related to the periodontium. Usually, you are referred to a periodontist by your dentist.
When Do I Need Periodontology?
If you have any of the following symptoms, it may be advisable to consult a periodontist:
- Loose teeth
- Red, swollen, or sensitive gums
- Gums that bleed easily while brushing
- Receding gums
- Pus flowing between the gums and teeth
- Bad breath
The periodontist will conduct a brief examination to determine if further specialized investigation is necessary.
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What is Periodontitis?
When the periodontium is affected by inflammation, it is called periodontitis. Periodontitis can be one of the causes of bad breath. Smokers are more susceptible to periodontitis than non-smokers. Diabetes and a family history also increase the risk of periodontitis.
Some symptoms that may occur include: red, loose, and swollen gums, bleeding gums while brushing or eating, and receding gums. A bad taste or bad breath can also indicate periodontitis. Periodontitis usually does not cause pain.
Is Periodontology Reimbursed?
The statutory health insurance covers part of the costs for consultations with a periodontist and periodontal examination, but not everything. Want to be well protected against the costs of periodontology? Then you can join Dentalia Up, the supplementary dental insurance via Helan.
Dentalia Up reimburses the costs for periodontology, dentures, and implants for 50% or 80% reimbursement depending on your preventive behavior. So make sure to go for an annual check-up at the dentist, so you can always receive the highest reimbursement.
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Do you have a question about the Dentalia Up dental insurance? We are happy to help. You can find answers to the most frequently asked questions on our FAQ page. Additionally, you can also contact our customer advisors through various channels. Together, we will review your question or situation.
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Helan Independent Health Insurance Fund is the insurance agent (n° CDZ 5006c) for ‘MLOZ Insurance’, the VMOB of Independent Health Insurance Funds, (Register of Legal Entities in Brussels, 422.189.629, recognised under no. CDZ 750/01 for branches 2 and 18). View the data sheet and the General Terms and Conditions. Belgian law applies to the insurance contract. The term of the contract is whole life. In the event of any complaint, contact the complaints department of Helan Health Insurance Fund or the insurance ombudsman. For more information about purchasing this/these product(s), please contact Helan Health Insurance Fund. Helan Onafhankelijk ziekenfonds, Boomsesteenweg 5, 2610 Wilrijk, 0411.696.011, RPR Antwerpen, www.helan.be.