Pyorrhea: The Silent Killer

Pyorrhea is a disease of gums and supporting tissue of tooth. It is also called as periodontal disease. It occurs when germs infect the gum tissues around the teeth, causing redness, swelling and bleeding. Gum disease has been linked to major health problems including heart disease, strokes, preterm and stillborn births, as well as certain cancers. It is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults. Periodontitis is the 6th most common disease in the world.

In beginning it starts as an inflammation of gums and if it is left untreated condition becomes worst and periodontitis occurs. Pyorrhea (periodontitis) is a silent killer as this disease doesn’t have any symptoms. It gives only some alarming signs like bad breath or bleeding gums. It it is ignored then more destruction can occurs.

In the beginning it starts as inflammation of gingiva which is termed as GINGIVITIS. Gingivitis is less severe form of this gum disease. It occurs due to plaque build-up around the teeth. It comes in contact with gums and causes the inflammation. If properly brushing is not done then it converted into hard rock like calculus, commonly termed as tarter. Just like lime deposits on a shower drain, the hardened calculus is difficult to remove. The plaque will continue to grow and infect your gums, sometimes causing redness and bleeding you may or may not see.

 

In this gingivitis is left untreated, it will turn in to PERIODONTITIS. In periodontitis (pyorhhea) the calculus and plaque progress to grow and expand below your gums. It expands between your teeth and gums. This causes gums which are tightly attached to the teeth to separate from the tooth and bone. It cause loose gums which definitely needs attention. If now also it is untreated, then the calculus and other irritants go deep and in contact with bone which causes bone resorption . ultimately it resulted to bone loss and loosening of teeth. Bone loss continues and it causes fall out of your teeth- unless you seek treatment.

Symptoms

Symptoms of periodontitis may include:

Swelling and inflammation of the gums

Pain when flossing or brushing teeth and gums

Erosion leads to spaces between teeth

Pus between teeth and gums

Metallic taste in the mouth

Bad breath

Loose teeth

Risk Factors

Some individuals are at greater risk of developing periodontitis. These include:

Smokers

Females undergoing hormonal changes (e.g. puberty, pregnancy menopause)

Diabetics

AIDS patients

Cancer patients

People taking certain medications

People with family history of the condition

Treatment:

In less severe form of pyorrhea , full mouth deep cleaning and maintenance is necessary.

But in advanced stage, gum surgery known as flap surgery may also require to save salvageable teeth .

 

 

 

How to prevent pyorrhea:

Proper two times brushing is necessary. After eating anything make a habit of gargle with mouthwash. Dental visit every 6 months mandatory as this is silent disease. If any sign of bleeding gums and foul smell noticed, immediately contact your dentist.