Periodontitis is an infection of the gums and bone within the mouth. It is the most common cause of tooth loss and affects many adults in their 30s and 40s. It is caused by a number of things, including poor oral hygiene, smoking, chronic illnesses such as diabetes, smoking, genetic susceptibility and some medications.
Periodontitis treatment in Auckland and around the world used to be a non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planing, which cleaned the surface of teeth and roots. Alternatively, gum flap surgery has traditionally been another common method of treating gum disease. This involves cutting the gum tissue and flapping it back so that the roots can be deep cleaned underneath.
Here at Primecare Dental we provide laser treatment – a much less abrasive treatment option that is equally – if not more – effective. Laser technology has made many things possible in modern healthcare, including revolutionising the way we treat oral health concerns, and it’s proven to be an effective treatment for gum disease and periodontitis.
During gum disease treatment, your dentist will use a dental laser to access and remove any infected gum tissue from within pockets. The power and wavelengths of the laser can be adjusted to suit your individual needs. Once any infected tissue is removed, the root is exposed. The dentist will next remove the calculus with an ultrasonic root cleaner, before sealing the tissues against the tooth root with laser energy which warms the stem cells around the tooth.
Successful periodontal treatment requires full cooperation from the patient themselves. Maintenance of good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing at home, is essential. Studies have shown that lack of compliance and poor oral hygiene status will result in a relapse of the disease.
Laser treatment for treating gum disease has many benefits. Firstly, no general anaesthetic is needed, which comes with its own complications and dentists like to avoid its use. It also allows dentists to target the affected areas precisely and accurately, which restricts room for human error. Furthermore, postoperative healing time is significantly reduced, as the surgery is much less invasive overall. This means there are fewer complications such as bleeding or swelling during the healing time as well.
Periodontal disease can develop into an advanced stage without showing any obvious warning signs, ultimately causing your teeth to wobble or to become painful. It was once thought that periodontal disease (Periodontitis) was limited in the oral cavity, however, research is beginning to uncover their wide reaching effects on our overall health. What researchers have discovered is that periodontal disease increases the risk for other health problems such as cardiovascular or heart disease, strokes and diabetes.
If the condition is known earlier, dentists and medical doctors may be able to work closely together when managing patients with the above conditions.
Primecare Dental is proud to always offer the latest in modern dental treatments. If you’re struggling with gum disease, treatments are always available. Talk to us today to arrange a consultation with a dentist.
