Counseling Sheet

Agatha M. Thrash, M.D.
Preventive Medicine

An inflammation of the gums and sometimes the outer covering of the roots of the teeth, with tender bleeding gums, advancing until the teeth become loosened from the supporting gums, and finally leads to death of the tooth. The jaw bone gets osteoporosis from the erosion of the tooth socket by the infection and inflammation.

It is essential to recognize this problem early, if one is to prevent further damage and loss of teeth.‍

Treatment

‍1. Since a refined food diet is a common cause of pyorrhea, the total elimination of all refined fats, refined sugars, and refined proteins can he helpful, switching to a diet high in fresh, raw, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and some nuts and seeds. Avoid between-meal snacking of any kind. Studies show that the more times a person eats, the greater the buildup of plaque and the likelihood of pyorrhea.

2. Use large quantities of water, 8 to 20 glasses per day, as dry mouth encourages bacterial growth. Dehydration reduces tissue resistance to infection.

3. An astringent tea such as goldenseal, comfrey root, or chamomile, may be used hot as a mouthwash after each brushing. The astringent action encourages healing.

4. Do not use commercial toothpaste, but moisten a toothbrush, dip it in powdered charcoal and brush after each eating experience. Use a soft, small toothbrush with rounded bristles, and a flat brushing surface. Use short horizontal strokes, and a jiggling motion, holding the brush at a 45-degree angle with the teeth to allow the bristles to slip between the gums and the teeth. After brushing and rinsing, floss carefully, using unwaxed floss if possible. Hydrogen peroxide swished in the mouth for five minutes after brushing will often be healing. Rinse with an astringent tea.

5. Use the same measures as used for osteoporosis to prevent loss of bone structure.

6. Do not smoke. Smoking doubles the risk of pyorrhea. Do not use oral contraceptives, coffee and its relatives - tea, colas, and chocolate - or Dilantin, as they increase the risk of gum disease.

7. Exercise is helpful to build the body's resistance against infection.

8. Use hot baths, garlic, chaparral, echinacea, and goldenseal, as in any acute infection.

9. Regular and thorough cleaning of teeth by a dental hygienist helps to remove plaque build-up, which otherwise promotes inflammation and leads to pyorrhea.