Prevention of Gum Diseases (Gingivitis) part 1

More than 300 species of bacteria colonize our mouth most of them consist of normal flora of the mouth (normal inhabitant of the mouth) but some are opportunistic cause or initiate diseases process when opportunity given.
Gingivitis is a bacterial disease the only cause is dental plaque (a film consisting of diseases producing bacteria). It is invisible to naked eye. Plaque deposits can become visible with frequent deposition in neglected mouth to huge amounts. It becomes darker in color from light yellow to dark brown. The consistency will become hard this hard and calcified plaque is called Tartar. It will be very difficult to remove it with the help of toothbrush.
The predisposing factor to plaque formation and gingivitis are many. Which include, Taking of sweets, poor eating habits like taking meals in between meals, Smoking, Snuff dipping, and use of pan.
Debilitating systemic conditions, which reduce immunity against infection like HIV AIDS, blood cancer hepatitis, malnutrition, diabetes, typhoid, pregnancy.
Clinical presentation of sign and symptoms include bleeding gums with slight provocation, Change of color to red and angry looking, glazed surface, very slight or no pain that�s why it�s deceptive, feeling of separation of gums from teeth may some time occur. Gingivitis has marked pleomorphism of clinical presentations, which may reflect underlying systemic illness.
It can be marginal (confined to margin), diffuse and generalized, ulcerative, papillary each form is clinical representative of underlying cause. Therefore professional help is always necessary.
� New research shows that dental plaque increases the risk of heart attack two fold.
� Diabetic patient will encounter problem in controlling blood sugar in severe periodontal cases
� People who already had heart problem will be at risk of fatal attacks and serious infection.

How to prevent gingivitis

� Brush teeth with the aid of tooth paste
� Use antibacterial mouthwash to reduce no of bacteria to minimum (over use is contraindicated )
� Use dental floss or interdental brush. Use of tooth picks is least desirable
� Use Miswak with new bristle at each use. Clean it wash and disinfect after each use with circular motion and very gentle force, it is true for toothbrush also.
� A provision of health budget from your income on monthly basis will save thousands of money with good health as a bonus.
� Seek professional help as early as possible BUT

Make sure

� Instruments used on you are well-sterilized, boiling water and dry heat are weakest source of sterilization autoclave is the best.
� Always ask for disposable syringe and cartridges.
� Your dentist must have worn gloves mask and eye protection for him self.
� Surgery must be clean operating surfaces disinfected.

Dr Muhammad Qasimuddin
MCPS, BDS
Dental specialist
Booni Medical Center, (BMC) Chitral