NICO — silent inflammation in the jawbone
NICOs are chronic, often painless areas of inflammation in the jawbone. On ordinary X-rays they usually go undetected — yet they can burden the body as a so-called interference field.
An inflammation you barely feel
The abbreviation NICO refers to chronic inflammation in the jawbone. It often develops when wounds after a tooth extraction don't heal completely. Because it causes hardly any complaints in the mouth and is hard to detect on classic X-rays, it often goes unnoticed for a long time.
Why the jaw can affect the whole body
In biological dentistry we understand the mouth as part of the entire organism. A silent area of inflammation in the jawbone can act as an interference field and interact with the rest of the body via nerve, lymph and blood pathways.
Good to know
Are NICOs reliably detectable?
The suspicion arises from findings and imaging. A final assessment is always made individually.
Does everyone with complaints have a NICO?
No. NICO is one of several possible causes and is carefully weighed up.
Is this a promise of cure?
No. We inform you, examine thoroughly and discuss realistic options.
Proceeding gently and thoroughly
If an area of inflammation cannot heal conservatively, a small surgical procedure may be advisable. For good wound healing we use the body's own methods; if needed, bone augmentation follows.
Frequently asked
How is a NICO recognised?
Clear symptoms in the mouth are often absent. Clues come from the history (e.g. past tooth extractions) and a 3D scan.
Is surgery always necessary?
No. Whether and how to treat is decided together with you after thorough diagnostics.
Do other complaints disappear afterwards?
That cannot be promised. We treat the findings in the jaw and observe the course — honestly and without promises of cure.
Suspect a NICO?
We take time for a thorough examination and discuss with you what makes sense.
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