Healthy Gums through the Global Health Approach

Periodontal disease or periodontitis, better known as gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection affecting the bone and gingival tissue that support the teeth. Buccal tissue is attacked by pockets of pus originating from toxins released by the bacteria. The disease evolves slowly, and eventually leads to tooth loss if left untreated. Several factors are responsible for this condition:

• Insufficient hygiene
• Microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, parasites
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Weakened immune system
• Inadequate restoration work
• Bruxism
• Degenerative diseases
• Heredity
• Incompatible restoration materials
• Tobacco use

Furthermore, some bacteria produce fetid, volatile, sulphurous substances that cause halitosis (bad breath). In certain cases, they can be the source of even more significant damage.

Overall, 50% of the population suffers from periodontal diseases, 80% of whom are individuals 40 years of age or older. Data from the WHO (the World Health Organization) states that 10-15% of the global population suffers from a severe form of periodontal disease.

Numerous studies have shown that bleeding from the gums can transmit bacteria present in the mouth to the bloodstream. The presence of such bacteria can lead to serious health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pneumonia and other respiratory disorders, strokes and complications during pregnancy.

Smokers are four times more likely to develop periodontal disease than non-smokers.

Pregnant women with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to experience premature labour or give birth to low birth weight babies.

One hypothesis is that plaque varies depending on the type of ailment, and that some types of bacteria are closely related to disease. Moreover, certain bacteria are only observed when illness is present, which creates a similar profile for all affected patients. Bacteria that are active and highly motile under the microscope are considered the most dangerous. To control the disease, the pathogenic bacteria must be eliminated and the normal flora restored. Only the global approach can adequately contend with all these factors. Treatment begins by identifying the bacteria with a microscope, then selectively destroying the harmful strains. The global approach prescribes the use of anti-infectious agents that do not adversely impact the general state of health.

A complete evaluation of the mouth is essential. Eliminating sources of irritation such as metals is recommended because they are responsible for allergies and intolerances, as well as galvanic currents that can cause chronic irritation of the periodontium.

Evaluating vitality and overall health provides the opportunity to refer the patient, if needed, to a competent therapist to treat cases of nutritional deficiency in order to support the immune system.

omplete restoration of the mouth must be carried out in harmony with the materials' function and biocompatibility.