Periodontitis Treatment Auckland

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that affects many people in New Zealand. It can damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.
Here at Star Dental, we understand the impact periodontitis can have on your oral health and overall well-being. We offer comprehensive periodontal care using advanced techniques and a gentle touch to help you achieve a healthy smile.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease (gingivitis) that develops when plaque, a sticky film containing bacteria, builds up on the teeth at the gumline. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus). This creates a rough surface that further traps bacteria and irritates the gums.

Over time, the inflamed gums (gingivitis) pull away from the teeth, creating pockets. These pockets become infected with bacteria, leading to further gum tissue and bone loss. Periodontitis can eventually cause teeth to loosen or become lost altogether.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between gingivitis and periodontitis:

Gingivitis: This is the early stage of gum disease. The gums become inflamed, red, and may bleed easily, but there is no bone loss. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning.
Periodontitis: This is a more severe stage of gum disease with irreversible damage. The gums and bone that support the teeth are destroyed. Periodontitis requires professional treatment to stop the progression of the disease.

Some common symptoms of periodontitis include:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
Receding gums, making teeth appear longer
Loose teeth
Pus between the teeth and gums
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist for diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of Periodontitis

The primary cause of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque to build up and harden on the teeth. However, several other factors can increase your risk of developing this gum disease:

Smoking: Smoking weakens the immune system’s ability to fight off gum infection. It also reduces blood flow to the gums, hindering healing.
Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease.
Underlying health conditions: Diabetes, obesity, and stress can contribute to periodontitis.
Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can make gums more susceptible to inflammation.
Certain medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can reduce the natural cleansing effect of saliva and increase the risk of gum problems.
Poor nutrition: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals can weaken the gums and make them more vulnerable to infection.

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene and schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to help prevent periodontitis.

Why Choose Star Dental for Periodontitis Treatment?

At Star Dental, we are committed to providing the highest quality periodontal care in a comfortable and compassionate environment. Our team of experienced dentists and hygienists have the expertise to effectively diagnose and treat periodontitis at all stages.
Here’s what sets Star Dental apart for your periodontitis treatment needs:

Experienced team: Our dentists have advanced training and experience in diagnosing and treating gum disease.
Latest technology: We use modern technology like digital X-rays and laser scaling for accurate diagnosis and comfortable treatment procedures.
Individualised care: We understand that each patient’s needs are unique. We will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and concerns.
Patient comfort: Your comfort is our priority throughout your treatment journey. We offer various options for pain management and a relaxing atmosphere to ensure a positive experience.

We believe in a comprehensive approach to periodontal care, combining advanced treatments with ongoing maintenance and education to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

Diagnosis of Periodontitis

Diagnosing periodontitis involves a thorough examination and may include the following:

Visual examination: The dentist will visually assess your gums for redness, swelling, and bleeding. They will also check for any signs of receding gums or loose teeth.
Dental X-rays: X-rays can reveal bone loss caused by periodontitis.
Periodontal probing: A special instrument is used to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. Deeper pockets indicate more advanced gum disease.

In some cases, additional tests may be needed to assess the severity of the infection or rule out other underlying conditions.

Our dentists will discuss the findings of your examination with you and explain your diagnosis and treatment options in a clear and understandable way.

Treatment Options for Periodontitis

Treatment for periodontitis depends on the severity of the condition. Here at Star Dental, we offer a range of options to address your specific needs:

Non-surgical treatments

These are typically the first line of defence for mild to moderate periodontitis. They involve:

Scaling and root planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. The dentist may use hand instruments, ultrasonic scalers, or lasers for this procedure.
Antibiotics: In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help control the bacterial infection.

Surgical treatments

If non-surgical treatments aren’t enough, surgery may be necessary for advanced periodontitis. Some surgical options include:

Flap surgery: This procedure involves carefully lifting back the gum tissue to allow for better cleaning of the tooth roots and bone. The dentist may reshape the bone and remove any infected tissue before stitching the gum tissue back into place.
Bone grafting: In cases where bone loss has occurred, bone grafting procedures can help rebuild the bone that supports your teeth.
Tissue regeneration: Techniques may be used to encourage your body to regenerate lost gum tissue.

Ongoing maintenance

Following treatment, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial to prevent the recurrence of periodontitis. Your dentist will recommend a follow-up schedule based on your individual needs.

It’s important to note that early intervention is key for successful treatment of periodontitis. By addressing the condition promptly, you can prevent further damage to your gums and bone and maintain a healthy smile.

Preventing Periodontitis

Maintaining good oral hygiene is the cornerstone of preventing periodontitis. Here are some key practices to follow:

Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where brushing can’t reach. Consider using interdental brushes or a water flosser if flossing is difficult.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings: Visit your dentist for check-ups and professional cleanings at least twice a year, or more often if recommended by your dentist. These cleanings can remove plaque and tartar buildup that you can’t remove yourself.
Tongue scraping: Consider using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from your tongue, which can contribute to gum inflammation.
Balanced diet: Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods provide essential nutrients that help keep your gums healthy.
Smoking cessation: If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health, including your oral health. Smoking weakens the immune system and increases the risk of gum disease.

By following these preventive measures and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing periodontitis and keep your smile healthy for years to come.

FAQs about Periodontitis

Periodontitis can raise many questions. Here at Star Dental, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand this gum disease better:

What are the symptoms of periodontitis?

Common symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and pus between the teeth and gums.

What causes periodontitis?

The primary cause is poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque buildup. Other factors include smoking, genetics, underlying health conditions, hormonal changes, certain medications, and poor nutrition.

How is periodontitis treated?

Treatment options depend on the severity. Non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing are often used first. In advanced cases, surgery like flap surgery, bone grafting, or tissue regeneration may be necessary.

Can periodontitis be prevented?

Yes! Maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups is key. Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and using a tongue scraper can also help prevent gum disease.

What happens if periodontitis is left untreated?

Left untreated, periodontitis can worsen, leading to severe tooth loss and potentially impacting your overall health.

If you have any further questions about periodontitis or treatment options, please don’t hesitate to contact Star Dental. We’re here to provide you with the information and care you need for a healthy smile.

Taking Charge of Your Oral Health

Periodontitis is a serious gum disease, but with early detection and proper treatment, you can achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Star Dental offers comprehensive periodontal care using advanced technology and a gentle touch.
We understand that navigating treatment options can be confusing. That’s why our friendly team is here to answer your questions and discuss your individual needs during a consultation.

Schedule your consultation today to take charge of your oral health. We offer convenient appointment times to fit your busy schedule.

By taking proactive steps towards gum health, you can prevent complications and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.