Let us understand what is pyorrhea
Our overall general health is related to our oral health, per the latest studies. Many scientific researches have shown the connection between oral health and systemic health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular problems. The most common condition often overlooked when discussing oral health is gum problems. One such problem is advanced gum disease or pyorrhea. Now you must be thinking, what is pyorrhea. If yes, then hold on and read the information provided. The information provided below will briefly discuss a brief overview of the condition. We will try to understand what is pyorrhea, its common symptoms and the most effective treatment options available at World Smiles Dental Clinic.
What is Pyorrhea?
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease limited to soft tissues. When the disease progresses, it involves supporting teeth tissues and is known as advanced gum disease or pyorrhea.
What causes pyorrhea of the gums
Poor Oral Hygiene
The most common cause of pyorrhea is poor oral hygiene. Plaque accumulation is the most common sign of improper oral hygiene. Plaque is a sticky film that is deposited on the teeth. Regular and correct brushing leads to the cleaning of plaque. If not cleaned properly, the plaque accumulated on the teeth leads to tartar formation that irritates the gums. This process leads to the start of gum diseases. If left untreated, the gum disease spreads into the supporting tissues, leading to complications like tooth mobility.
Tobacco
Chewing tobacco or smoking is also a major cause of gum problems. Smoking does not directly lead to gum disease but indirectly affects an individual’s immune system. The immune system is responsible for the body’s healing capacity, and a weakened immune response leads to delayed healing of gum problems.
Nutrition
Talking further about the body’s healing capacity, we come down to a very important and neglected part: diet and nutrition. Nutrition also plays an indirect role in gum disease. A diet rich in vitamin C enhances immunity and the body’s ability to repair and restore damaged collagen fibres.
Hormones
Another common factor that affects the response to gum disease is the hormonal changes. Pregnancy and puberty are two such stages where the individual is more susceptible to gum problems.
Medical conditions
Systemic conditions like diabetes affect the immune system’s ability to fight against diseases. It also impairs the body’s response to gum problems.
Signs of gum problems
Inflammation of gums
Healthy gums are light pink, and as the gum disease begins, the first change is the colour change. The inflamed gums have a reddish appearance and are also swollen. The healthy gums are firm, whereas, with the onset of gum disease, they start to become soggy.
Bleeding Gums
Another common sign to watch out for is the bleeding gums. Bleeding that occurs during routine activities like brushing or eating raw fruits and vegetables must be reported. Occasional bleeding is normal and should not be a cause of worry.
Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath or halitosis is another common sign of pyorrhea. The bacteria in the plaque causing gum disease also release fowl smell-producing compounds.
Gum recession
Receding gums is another common sign of advanced gum disease. This leads to exposure of roots leading to tooth sensitivity.
Mobile teeth
As the gum disease progresses from the gums to the supporting fibres of the tooth, it leads to tooth mobility.
Treatment options available at World Smiles Dental Clinic
Professional cleaning
One of the most common methods of treatment is professional cleaning. Besides scaling, antibiotic pastes are also used topically for speedy recovery in cases of severe gum diseases.
Surgical methods
Flap surgeries, gum grafting and bone grafting are some of the surgical options available for treating advanced gum problems. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the case.
