Dr. Rajarshi Bhushan & Dr. Manish Shekhar
The oral cavity contains about five hundred different microbial species and if oral hygiene practices are not properly performed it may lead to deteriorated condition of the gums and bone of teeth. This disease commonly known as pyorrhea to the general masses is termed as periodontitis.
Individuals suffering from periodontitis usually complaint of one or more of the following problems that include bleeding from gums, swollen gums, bad or altered taste, pus discharge, pain, sensitivity to cold and mobile teeth.
A large number of the Indian population suffers from periodontitis, but unfortunately due to late development of symptoms and unawareness, it remains unnoticed for a long period, at times leading to loss of tooth.
However, the current developments in periodontal research and its implications on general health over the past years have established a correlation between periodontitis and other health conditions such as atherosclerosis, coronary heart diseases, angina, heart strokes, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases and acute bacterial pneumonia.
Investigations have revealed that the bacteria present in the oral cavity may have a potential effect on other organ systems via circulation in the blood. These bacteria induce host responses leading to pathological changes in the organs. These bacteria may also lead to changes that result in preterm labor giving birth to low birth weight infants.
The systemic effects of the oral bacteria can be checked by good oral hygiene practices and regular dental checkups. The extent and severity of periodontitis needs to be intercepted so as to eliminate the reservoir of bacterial colonies and hence improve oral health as well as prolong the natural set of dentition.
Treatment modalities include not just mere cleaning of teeth (scaling) but also extensive periodontal procedures that include curettage and flap procedures. Individuals need to consent their dental practitioners or a specialist i.e. a periodontist. Besides, the general practitioners also need to guide their patients in this context that will help improve the overall health of the people.
Overzealous brushing, improper brushing technique, gastritis, etc. leads to attrition of the teeth which leads to sensitivity. These sensitive teeth prevent you from having something cold, hot and sometimes even sweets. This can be easily treated.
The invention of laser is a boom for dentistry. Just a simple application of laser cures all your sensitivity. Soft tissue growth can be removed easily with lasers without any pain or bleeding. The post extraction bleeding can easily be stopped by application of laser. In short it’s not just a boom for the dentist but a blessing in disguise for the patients even.
To sum up you should not neglect your teeth. It’s as important as the other organs of your body and a defect in teeth even leads to other problems in your body. Healthy teeth n gums lead to healthy body.
