Gum diseases commonly known as pyorrhea is an oral condition developing due to plaque build-up along gum lines. Plaque is a sticky tenaciousfilm which can be found on teeth surfaces and along gum line. This biofilm isloaded with bacteria which producing acids and toxins harmful to teeth, gumsand bones in mouth leading to gum disease, bone, tooth decay. The plaque if present for long on teeth gets converted into hard calcified structure known as calculus/Tarter. Gingivitis and periodontitis are two forms of gum disease.
The symptoms of gingivitis include:
1. Redness of gums
2. Inflamed sore gums
3. Tenderness to touch
4. Swollen gums
5.Bleeding while brushing or touching
Gingivitis being the initial stage if addressed on time can be resolved and reversed. However if gingivitis progresses it can lead to an advanced irreversible form of disease called as periodontitis.
The symptoms of periodontitis include
1. Bone loss
2. Gum recession
3. Tooth mobility
4. Gaps between the teeth
5. Deep dull pain
American Dental Association (ADA), guidelines suggest you might have gum disease if the following signs are present:
1. Consistently bad salty taste in mouth
2. Bad breath
3. Loosening or mobility of teeth
4. Bleeding of gums while brushing
5. Swollen, red, or tender gums
6. Teeth sensitivity to hot and cold
7. Gums that have pulled away (receding gum line) from your teeth
Treatment of pyorrhea:
1. Tarter/ calculus cannot be removed by regular brushing or at home, a dental visit is necessary.
2. Your dentist can remove the deposits on your teeth through the procedure known as scaling and polishing.
3. The doctor will also guide you about right way of brushing which will help maintain the oral hygiene.
4. Use warm saline (luke warm water and 1 tsp salt) for rinsing mouth 2-3 times day is recommended for healthy gums
5. Medicated mouthwash containing chlorhexidine can be used to halt progress of disease.
Tips for healthy gums
1. Flossing: Floss atleast once a day.
2. Get regular dentalcleanings. Your dentist can detect early gum disease symptomsif you visit them on a regular basis.
3. Quit smoking.
4. Brush twice a day.
5. Always use a soft bristlesbrush.
6. Use fluoride toothpaste.
7. Use a therapeuticmouthwash.
8. Avoid usingtoothpicks, safety pins or any other sharp iobjects to remove food particles.
9. Eat rough fibrous foods daily to remove plaque.
10. Gum paints or astringents can be used intermittently to promote gum health.
Visit us for any further queries or treatment at
Kant Dental Clinic
101, Stellar Enclave,
Opp Westend Mall, Aundh, Pune -7
Above McDonalds
Ph: 7741805989