If the aftermath of your everyday tryst with the toothbrush makes you see red, then it's time to pay a re-visit to a forgotten friend. Gums are the poor dental cousins, often ignored and quite vulnerable to bleeding their hearts out when left to rot. A special branch of dentistry that is dedicated to giving this organ its due is Periodontology. Recent times have seen extensive research in the subject and discovered its links to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and pregnancy-related complications. “Almost 40 per cent of the Indian population suffers from some form of periodontal disease. The trouble essentially hits in the form of an inflammation caused by bacteria, which ultimately snowballs into bone loss,” says Dr Neel Bhatavadekar, a periodontologist. Modern lifestyles have dug up many new diseases. The deeper the understanding of their inter-relations, the better. “Three main causative factors can be diabetes, a smoking habit and genetic predisposition. It's a two-way relationship with diabetes – with good periodontal health comes better insulin control and on the other hand, bone loss lowers drastically if diabetes is kept in check. Genetics influences the individual subjectivity of response to inflammation,” continues Bhatavadekar.

The outfall of gum infections in cases of cardiovascular diseases is more indirect. The infection could enter the bloodstream through gum wounds and thereby cause complications. Such a risk, however, is higher in people who are already suffering from heart trouble. “Especially in India, with its vast swathes of low awareness and sub-standard commitment to hygiene, periodontics needs a stronger presence. Regular check-ups are essential. Some basic dental-care steps like flossing are sadly amiss in daily routines,” says dentist Dr Priyank Khanna.

Pregnancy in itself is a vulnerable stage, characterised by volatile hormonal and emotional fluctuations. So this period demands fine observation of the subtlest of signs, which include periodontal problems. It has been proven through research that periodontal disease could lead to a fall in the weight of the foetus, and especially needs to be taken care of in the first trimester.

“The patients must ask as many questions as possible and get a clear picture. This in itself will ensure the correct prognosis and treatment. But, I must admit, that a lot has improved over the past few years. Even in the small clinics of the city, awareness is rising. A well-read, careful patient is just as important as a well-trained physician,” says Khanna. Indians have never afforded dental care a very high regard. “All the foreign patients I have encountered always remember their dental appointments and follow it by the letter every six months. The point is that it's not a life and death matter to have a healthy mouth. But, it could decide the difference between an average life and a good life,” he adds.

Source: Indian Express