PERIODONTAL DISEASE 

(Gingivitis, pyorrhea, periodontitis)

About Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is almost as common a problem as the common cold.  It’s the main cause of loss of teeth in adults.  About three in twenty children have periodontal disease, four in ten 20-year olds, and over 50% of older adults.  Early stages involve inflammation of the gums (gingivitis).  It’s caused by plaque which causes the gums to become infected and swollen, red, soft and bleeding.  Sometimes gingivitis causes pain, but it can also be painless.

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to pyorrhea or periodontitis.  Here the bone supporting the teeth begins to erode as a result of the infection.  Abscesses are common.  Pyorrhea causes bad breath, with bleeding and often painful gums.  Causes of pyorrhea include poor nutrition, poor mouth hygiene or improper brushing, chronic illness, glandular disorders, blood disease, smoking, and excessive alcohol.  Smokers are more likely to develop pyorrhea and lose teeth as a result.

Nutritional deficiencies can make individuals more prone to pyorrhea, particularly vitamin C and bioflavonoids, calcium, folic acid and niacin.  Other mouth problems can also indicate nutrititional deficiencies:

Dryness and cracking at the corners of the mouth may indicate a deficiency of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) or a general nutritional deficiency.  Dry or cracked lips can point to allergy.  Raw, red mouth tissue may be a sign of stress. A smooth, reddish tongue can indicate anaemia or poor diet.  Sores under the tongue can be an early warning sign of mouth cancer.  Regular dental checkups can help detect these conditions early.

Nutrition Facts & Diet Advice for Periodontal Disease

Consider the following nutrition guidelines: