A silent disease

DENTISTRY today is not just about detecting and diagnosing dental issues but more about disease prevention.

Gum disease affects a large part of the adult population and remains a prevalent disease. Yet, it is often disregarded by many and not adequately addressed.

Gum disease is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial plaque that can involve the gums, ligaments and bone surrounding the teeth.

It is a silent disease with little to no signs. Apart from some bleeding while brushing, bad breath, redness, puffiness or itchiness, there are no painful symptoms until the severe stage of gum disease.

Early stage gum disease ( gingivitis) that involves the superficial layer of gums is reversible and preventable. However, advanced gum disease or periodontitis is irreversible and can only be kept under control upon treatment.

Dental plaque accumulation is the prerequisite for the development of gingivitis and removing it is the cornerstone of preventing periodontal diseases.

Research shows that the time and frequency of brushing are key factors in the efficiency of dental plaque removal.

However, the dedication and motivation required to achieve or maintain such control is not the norm for most individuals.

This has led to the introduction of chemical agents as adjuncts to mechanical oral hygiene procedures to control dental plaque formation.

The use of oral care products with anti- microbial agents in daily oral hygiene routines augments the fight against periodontal diseases by minimising the damaging effects of bacterial plaque.

Years of research backed by clinical trials have heralded chlorhexidine as the most effective oral antiseptic and chemical plaque control agent currently available for use, especially between normal professional dental hygiene visits. –

Dr Ng Kar Wee is director at Cavico ( M) Sdn Bhd.

For more information, contact Cavico ( M) Sdn Bhd.