Pyorrhoea: Causes, Symptoms and Comprehensive Treatment Guide

Oral health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, yet many people overlook it until problems become severe. One of the most common yet often neglected gum diseases is pyorrhoea—a progressive infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Known medically as periodontitis, pyorrhoea can silently damage gum tissues, loosen teeth, and even affect systemic health if left untreated.

This article explores pyorrhoea in detail: what it is, how it develops, its symptoms, complications, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

~What is Pyorrhoea?

The word pyorrhoea comes from Greek: pyo (pus) and rhoia (flow or discharge). True to its name, pyorrhoea is characterized by the discharge of pus from infected gum pockets.

It is essentially an advanced stage of gum disease that begins with gingivitis (gum inflammation) and progresses to periodontitis (severe infection of the supporting tissues of teeth).

Key Characteristics:

Gum inflammation and swelling.
Pus discharge from gums.
Gum recession and tooth loosening.
Foul breath and bad taste in mouth.

~Causes of Pyorrhoea

Pyorrhoea is primarily caused by bacterial infection, but several factors contribute to its onset and severity.

1. Dental Plaque and Tartar

When oral hygiene is poor, food debris and bacteria form a sticky film called plaque on teeth.
If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which irritates gums and harbors more bacteria.
This leads to gum inflammation and infection.

2. Poor Oral Hygiene

Irregular or improper brushing and flossing.
Failure to clean the gum line and spaces between teeth.

3. Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking weakens the immune response in gums.
Nicotine reduces blood flow, delaying healing.
Tobacco users are at higher risk of severe gum disease.

4. Nutritional Deficiency

Lack of Vitamin C can impair gum health.
Poor diet reduces resistance to infection.

5. Systemic Conditions

Diabetes, heart disease, and compromised immunity increase risk.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can worsen gum problems.

6. Hereditary Factors

Genetics may make some individuals more prone to gum disease.

~Risk Factors

Anyone can develop pyorrhoea, but certain groups are more susceptible:

Smokers and alcohol consumers.
People with chronic illnesses (like diabetes).
Individuals with poor oral hygiene habits.
Those under high stress (stress weakens immunity).
Older adults with reduced healing capacity.

~Stages of Pyorrhoea

Pyorrhoea develops gradually. Recognizing its stages helps in early intervention.

Gingivitis (Early Stage)
- Mild gum redness, swelling, and occasional bleeding during brushing.
- Reversible with proper care.
Early Periodontitis
- Gum pockets begin forming.
- Plaque and tartar accumulate below the gum line.
- Mild bone loss may start.
Moderate Periodontitis
- Deeper gum pockets harbor pus.
- Gums recede, exposing tooth roots.
- Teeth become slightly mobile.
Advanced Periodontitis (Pyorrhoea)
- Severe gum recession.
- Significant pus discharge.
- Loose teeth, bad breath, and bone loss.
- Risk of tooth loss becomes very high.

~Symptoms of Pyorrhoea

The disease often progresses silently until it becomes serious. Common symptoms include:

Red, swollen, and tender gums.
Bleeding while brushing or flossing.
Persistent bad breath (halitosis).
Receding gum line (teeth appear longer).
Formation of gum pockets.
Pus discharge from gums.
Loosening or drifting of teeth.
Pain while chewing.
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.

~Complications of Untreated Pyorrhoea

If left untreated, pyorrhoea doesn’t just damage oral health—it can affect the whole body.

1. Tooth Loss

The most direct complication is loss of teeth due to gum and bone destruction.

2. Bone Loss

Infection spreads to alveolar bone, weakening the jaw structure.

3. Systemic Health Risks

Research has linked pyorrhoea with systemic conditions:

Heart disease: Gum bacteria can enter bloodstream, increasing risk of atherosclerosis.
Diabetes complications: Periodontal disease makes blood sugar harder to control.
Respiratory infections: Bacteria from gums may be inhaled into lungs.
Pregnancy issues: Linked to preterm birth and low birth weight.

~Diagnosis of Pyorrhoea

Dentists use several methods to diagnose pyorrhoea:

Clinical Examination
- Inspect gums for redness, swelling, and bleeding.
- Check for pus discharge and tooth mobility.
Periodontal Probing
- A periodontal probe measures pocket depth between tooth and gum.
- Healthy gums: 1–3 mm; Pyorrhoea: 5 mm or deeper.
Dental X-Rays
- Show extent of bone loss around teeth.
Medical History
- Check for associated conditions (diabetes, smoking, medications).

~Treatment of Pyorrhoea

Pyorrhoea requires professional dental treatment combined with improved oral care practices. Treatment aims to:

Control infection.
Remove plaque and tartar.
Promote gum reattachment.
Prevent tooth loss.

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

Scaling removes plaque and tartar above and below gum line.
Root planing smoothens tooth roots to discourage bacterial growth.
Done under local anesthesia in advanced cases.

Antibiotics

Prescribed to control infection.
Can be systemic (oral tablets) or local (gels, mouth rinses).

2. Surgical Treatments

If gum pockets are too deep, surgery may be needed:

Flap Surgery: Gums are lifted back for deep cleaning and then sutured.
Bone Grafting: Restores lost bone with graft material.
Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): Promotes regrowth of bone and gum tissue.
Soft Tissue Grafts: Reinforces receding gums with tissue from roof of mouth.

3. Supportive Therapy

Regular maintenance visits every 3–6 months.
Antiseptic mouthwashes (chlorhexidine).
Pain relief medications if needed.

~Home Remedies and Natural Approaches

While home remedies can’t cure pyorrhoea, they may support treatment:

Saltwater Rinse: Reduces bacteria and soothes gums.
Oil Pulling (Coconut or Sesame Oil): Traditional method to reduce bacterial load.
Turmeric Paste: Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Clove Oil: Provides pain relief and fights bacteria.
Aloe Vera Gel: Soothes inflamed gums.

(Note: These are supportive measures only, not substitutes for professional treatment.)

~Prevention of Pyorrhoea

Preventing pyorrhoea is easier than treating it. Good oral hygiene and lifestyle habits make a huge difference.

Daily Habits

Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to clean between teeth.
Use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
Clean tongue to reduce bacterial load.

Lifestyle Measures

Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products.
Maintain a balanced diet rich in Vitamin C and calcium.
Manage stress to boost immunity.

Regular Dental Care

Visit dentist every 6 months for cleaning and checkups.
Get professional scaling regularly to prevent tartar buildup.
Report early signs of gum bleeding or swelling immediately.

~Pyorrhoea in Children and Young Adults

Though more common in adults, children and teenagers can also develop gum disease, especially with poor oral hygiene or orthodontic braces. Preventive education at an early age is critical.

~Myths and Misconceptions

“Bleeding gums are normal.”
No—bleeding is often the first sign of gingivitis or early periodontitis.
“Pyorrhoea is only age-related.”
Not true—young adults can develop it due to poor hygiene or systemic issues.
“Home remedies can cure pyorrhoea.”
They may reduce symptoms but can’t replace professional treatment.

~The Link Between Oral Health and General Health

Modern research strongly supports the connection between oral health and overall health. Gum infections like pyorrhoea are no longer seen as isolated problems—they can trigger systemic inflammation, influence chronic conditions, and reduce quality of life.

Maintaining gum health isn’t just about saving teeth—it’s about protecting your heart, lungs, and immune system.

~Conclusion

Pyorrhoea is a serious gum disease that begins silently but can cause tooth loss and systemic complications if neglected. The good news is that it is preventable and treatable with proper oral hygiene, lifestyle changes, and timely professional care.

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile—and by extension, a healthier body. Paying attention to early signs like gum bleeding or bad breath can save you from painful and costly dental problems later.

Remember: Your oral health is a mirror of your overall health. Take care of your gums, and they will take care of you.

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Pyorrhoea: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments