Pyorrhea Or Periodontitis: What Is It And How To Treat It?

Gum diseases are relatively common in the population. Due to its constant exposure to bacteria, this soft tissue can be affected by inflammatory and infectious problems. Among them, pyorrhea became one of the most relevant, especially due to the complications it entails. What does it consist of? How is it treated?

Pyrrhea is a complication of chronic periodontal disease, better known as periodontitis. It occurs when the bones and ligaments that support the teeth become infected due to the proliferation of bacteria. According to information published by the Spanish Society of Periodontology and Osseointegration ,  this condition affects 25% of adults between 35 and 44 years. Furthermore, its incidence increases after 65 years of age.

What is pyorrhea?

Pyrrhea is a periodontal disease caused by the build-up of dental plaque, derived, in turn, from poor dental hygiene. It manifests with inflammation and bleeding of the gums and also affects the supporting tissues of the tooth, causing gingival retraction and the appearance of interdental spaces.

It is characterized by a severe infection of the ligaments or tissues close to the tooth and is considered dangerous as it usually does not cause symptoms until it causes serious complications to oral health.

Causes of pyorrhea

The  main cause of pyorrhea is the overgrowth of bacteria in the oral tissue. This, in turn, is associated with poor oral hygiene, incorrect use of a toothbrush, constant exposure to stress and smoking. Even genetic factors and anatomical abnormalities influence its appearance.

However, it should be borne in mind that pyorrhea is the result of gingivitis that has not been treated in time. Swollen gums, although painless at first, are the main cause of gum bleeding during brushing. Other factors related to its appearance are as follows:

• Take medications that cause dry mouth or gum changes.
• Vitamin B and C deficiency.
• Use of recreational drugs, such as smoking marijuana.
• Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause.
• Diseases of the immune system.
• Other chronic diseases such as diabetes and osteoporosis.

pyorrhea symptoms

One of the most worrying things about pyorrhea is the absence of symptoms in certain cases. Although most affected people have had some prior manifestation of gingivitis, this is not always the case. There are those who do not feel discomfort until a serious complication is triggered. Also, some confuse bleeding with injuries caused by toothbrushes.

In any case, you should be aware of some characteristic signs of this condition.  The most common include the following:

• bleeding gums
• Inflammation and redness of the gums.
• Difficulties or discomfort when chewing food.
• Bad breath (halitosis).
• Teeth look mobile.
• Appearance of interdental spaces.
• Gingival retraction.
• Tooth sensitivity to temperature changes.
• Teeth don’t fit the same way in chewing.

The presence of these symptoms indicates that the gum tissues are deteriorating. In severe cases, when there is no proper intervention, this can lead to tooth loss. Therefore, it is essential to consult a professional in periodontics and start treatment.

How is pyorrhea treated?

The choice of treatment against pyorrhea is made considering its degree of severity. It is generally classified as mild, moderate or severe. An oral health professional must determine the degree of impairment and therapeutic options.

Given the complications this entails, it should be noted that there are no home remedies that can alleviate this condition. To prevent the deterioration of affected tissues, it is necessary to improve hygiene habits and follow prescribed medical treatment.

Hygiene

Undoubtedly, the first measure to prevent and treat pyorrhea is to  ensure proper dental hygiene. This involves brushing your teeth correctly several times a day, in addition to using dental floss and other complementary cleaning products.

Today, several companies offer a wide range of products that act as adjuvants in the treatment of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Options like daily mouthwash or hyaluronic acid gels for the gums help give extra protection to the mouth.

Both products have components that help prevent bacterial overgrowth and plaque formation. They also  strengthen damaged tissues and contribute to their recovery.

Basic periodontal treatment

In most cases, people with pyorrhea improve their condition after receiving basic periodontal treatment. This should complement oral hygiene, as it includes procedures that help to eliminate bacteria accumulated on the tooth surface and nearby areas. How is this done?

• First, the affected areas are intervened by scaling and root planing.
• Then, the professional suggests taking antibiotics to complement the intervention. The choice between one option or the other depends on the type of bacteria in the teeth.

periodontal surgery

When pyorrhea is too advanced, basic treatment is not enough. In that case, the dentist suggests an intervention known as periodontal surgery. It consists of accessing the deep periodontal pockets where pathogens are located.

If the infection has already caused significant tissue and bone destruction, other techniques, such as guided tissue regeneration, will need to be applied.

Pyrrhea tends to reappear

After treatment for pyorrhea, it is necessary to monitor the disease. If proper care is not applied, it may manifest again after a while.

Thus, in addition to ensuring optimal oral hygiene with the use of recommended products, it is essential to consult a dentist periodically. The professional will be able to advise you on good hygiene habits and will intervene in cleaning or prophylaxis, if necessary.