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Optimized prevention and new methods in tooth preservation / Research on the oral microbiome and periodontitis

Prof. Dr. Fabian Cieplik has been Medical Director of the Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg since January 2024. After studying and training as a dentist in Regensburg, Cieplik initially worked in Regensburg - interrupted by periods abroad in Amsterdam and Newcastle. At the Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Cieplik would like to advance preventive dentistry and the digitally supported production of crowns and partial crowns within the Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology. He will also continue his research into oral microbiology and immunology. He succeeds Prof. Dr. Elmar Hellwig, who has headed the clinic since 1993.

Tailor-made dental restorations thanks to artificial intelligence

Scan, design, grind, done: digital processes supported by artificial intelligence allow crowns and partial crowns to be produced much faster directly during treatment. "We use high-precision intraoral scans and digitally controlled manufacturing processes to make dental restorations as quick and comfortable as possible for our patients," says Cieplik. For less complicated cases, a single treatment appointment is often enough to produce and fit a crown or partial crown.
"The Center for Dental Medicine functions like a 'university dental practice' with specialists from various disciplines under one roof, where dental treatments of all kinds are possible. At the Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, we want to do our part to ensure that they continue to receive the best possible treatment in the future," says Cieplik.

Maintaining a healthy microbial balance in the mouth

Cieplik's research focuses on how teeth can be kept healthy into old age. With increasing age, the risk of periodontitis increases, which can attack the gums as well as the connective tissue and jawbones. "The more we know about the biofilm that forms on the tongue, oral mucosa and teeth and the initial inflammatory processes, the more effectively we can maintain the microbial balance in the mouth and prevent periodontitis," explains the dentist.

Caption: Prof. Dr. Fabian Cieplik has headed the Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg since January 2024.
Image source: Medical Center - University of Freiburg