Pyorrhea
Pyorrhea is a condition also known as periodonditis. This condition affects the tissues that surround the teeth. This condition is progressive, often occurring over a period of several months before any sign appears. When not treated or prevented from progressing, it does not only cause a lot of pain to the patient but could also lead to loss of teeth.
There are many different forms and categories of pyorrhea that a patient could experience. Often, it starts with the build of plaque and tartar which could lead to gingivitis. Then, it could progress to a more serious condition such as chronic then aggressive pyorrhea.
Soon, the patient will experience abscesses in any part of the periodontium.
Pyorrhea Causes
Pyorrhea is caused by a variety of reasons. Among the most common are increased formation of bacteria in the mouth because of inadequate dental care, smoking, poor nutrition, and the excessive consumption of sugar or sugary foods.
People suffering from certain health conditions like blood disorders are also at risk for pyorrhea. Lack of niacin, calcium, and folic acid are also known to cause this advanced form of periodontitis.
Here are other known causes of pyorrhea that the patient might like to know about:
- Chemical and physical irritants
- Using of a contraceptive pill
- Too much alcohol consumption
- Drug use
- The sticking of food particles in between the teeth
- Vitamin C deficiency
- Injury or damage to the gums and the structures supporting them caused by the improper usage of toothpicks
- Allergies
- Prolonged tension
- Pregnancy
- Wrong eating habits like the frequent intake of white sugar and bread
- Wrong way of brushing
Preventive Measures against Pyorrhea
Knowing the causes of pyorrhea will raise the individual’s awareness on what to avoid.
Also, this can help a person formulate a plan of action to prevent self from experiencing pyorrhea. The following can be done to prevent pyorrhea:
- Proper oral care is important to ensure that pyorrhea is prevented. Brush teeth at least twice a day, use floss, and use mouthwash. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles as the hard ones can damage the gums. Also, learn how to properly brush teeth.
- Also, do not use very sharp toothpicks that could damage the gums.
- Improve the immune system by eating foods rich in vitamin C. Also, it is a good idea to strengthen teeth by eating foods rich in calcium and other minerals.
- Always visit the dentist at least once every 6 months. The dentist will be able to detect oral problems early on and is able to provide prophylactic treatments to prevent the spread and aggravation of the ailment.
