What is Pyorrhea and How to Deal with it?
Meaning
The term “Pyorrhea,” which comes from the Greek word for “Discharge of Pus,” is used in healthcare to describe an inflammatory gum disease that is also known as periodontal disease or periodontitis. It is a multifactorial condition that develops from gingivitis, an untreated gum infection, and affects the gums, ligaments, and bones inside the mouth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Why does Pyorrhea occur?
Pyorrhea is mainly caused by poor tooth hygiene. Plaque or tartar accumulation along the gum lines is the cause of or a symptom of pyorrhea. A type of bacterium known as pyorrhea alveolaris forms a sticky biofilm known as plaque when it feeds on trapped food particles and releases toxins and acids that harm the teeth, gums, and oral bones. Dental plaque hardens into a black, calcified substance known as calculus or tartar if it is not removed by a dentist for an extended period.
Tartar build-up along the gum line leads to gums inflammation, bleeding, and pain or discomfort as well as receding gums. All of which are signs of pyorrhea.
How to recognize Pyorrhoea?
- Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Pain during biting, chewing, or brushing
- Pus discharged from the gums
- Gum recession
- Soft and Supple gums
- Formation of pockets between the teeth and gums
- Spacing between the teeth
- Loosening of the teeth or feeling as though the teeth are rootless or supportless
- Red, bright gums, sparkling gums, or purplish surfaces
- Abscess of the periodontal canal
- Teeth or partial dentures do not fit as they once did.
How to deal with Pyorrhea?
To get Pyorrhea treated, the first step is to consult a dental professional. A dental professional would recommend and run the following treatments for Pyorrhea:
- Sustenance of proper oral hygiene practices- Dental hygienists or dental experts provide professional guidance on how to take care of teeth and gums and recommend the best oral care products to use. They provide advice on how to brush and floss to keep teeth and gums disease-free.
- Scaling and root planning- These are dental procedures used to remove the build-up of plaque and tartar from the teeth surface and their roots, along the gum line. They are followed by teeth polishing and fluoride treatment. Deep cleaning of periodontal pockets is required for quick healing.
- How to Deal with Pyorrhea with Antibiotics- Topical or oral antibiotics are prescribed to treat bacterial infection of the mouth.
- Flap surgery- In case, all other treatment approaches fail to work, a periodontist may recommend a flap surgery. Flap surgery helps remove the plaque or tartar formed beneath the gums. In case, there is a loss of jawbone, bone grafting surgery is performed.
Is Pyorrhea Preventable?
Yes, Pyorrhea is avoidable by promptly treating the gum infection. Gum infection is preventable by practicing proper oral hygiene and oral care. The preventive measures include:
Daily brushing teeth twice using proper technique with the right toothbrush and toothpaste.
Regularly going to the dentist after a minimum gap of 6-12 months for oral health check-ups and professional dental cleaning.