Along with caries, periodontal disease is the most common pathological condition seen in dental clinical practice. It is frequently found in both underdeveloped and developed countries, with an estimated 20-50% of the world's population suffering from some form of the disease. The etiology of periodontitis is not fully understood, but it is known to be of multifactorial origin. In addition to the identified periodontopathogenic bacterial species of mature subgingival biofilm, pathogenesis also includes genetics, oral hygiene measures, smoking, and some systemic diseases (eg. diabetes mellitus 1 and 2, cardiovascular disease). The mechanical removal of the biofilm and the reduction of subgingival pathogens is a key step in etiologic therapy. The combination of known therapeutic procedures and individualization of treatment is the best path to a satisfactory outcome. The therapeutic goal is not to cure in a standard sense, but to achieve and maintain a balance between periodontal destruction and the host's reactive immune response. Although the therapeutic outcome is difficult to predict, a high-quality and continuous collaboration between the dentist and the patient provides the best conditions for success. At the check-ups, the dentist monitors the progress of the disease, performs prophylactic therapeutic procedures and is able to educate and motivate his patients. The long-term sustainability of therapeutic success largely depends on the patient, who is required to persistently maintain oral hygiene at home, as well as attend his chek-ups regularly.