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Monday 22 January 2018

GINGIVITIS AND ITS DIETARY INTERVENTION

GINGIVITIS
Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums (gingiva). It commonly occurs because of films of the bacteria that accumulate on the teeth, called plaque. This type is called plaque induced gingivitis.


Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth.

TYPES OF GINGIVITIS
1. Dental plaque induced gingival disease: This can be caused by plaque, systemic factors, medications or malnutrition.

2. Non─ plaque induced gingival lesions: Can be caused by a specific bacterium, virus or fungus. It night also be caused by genetic factors, systemic conditions including allergic wounds, or reactions to foreign bodies (such as dentures).

CAUSES OF GINGIVITIS
Accumulation of plaque and tartar between and around the teeth. The plaque triggers an immune response, which eventually lead to the destruction of gingival (gum) tissues and further complications, including loss of teeth.


Dental plaque.

Changes in hormones: Which may occur during puberty, menopause, the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. The gingiva might become more sensitive, raising the risk of inflammation.

Drugs: E.g; dilatin (anti­convulsant).

Smoking.

Age: the risk of gingivitis increases with age.

Family history: people whose parents had gingivitis have a higher risk of developing it too.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF GINGIVITIS
a. Gums are bright red or purple.
b. Gums are tender and sometimes painful to the touch.
c. Gums bleed easily when brushing teeth or flossing.
d. Halitosis (bad breath).
e. Inflammation (swollen gums).
f. Receding gums
g. Soft gums

Note: In mild cases of gingivitis, there may be no discomfort or noticeable symptoms.

TREATMENT/DIET INDICATION
If the patient is diagnosed early on, and treatment is prompt and proper, gingivitis can be successfully reversed.

Probiotics may help to decrease gingivitis and plaque, bacteria in fermented foods might suppress the growth of pathogens in the oral cavity.

Consuming fermented dairy products is associated with less periodental diseases.

1. Protein: for tooth structure, mucosal/corrective tissue development and immune function.

2. Calcium: tooth structure; may enhance enamel remineralization.

3. Phosphorous: tooth structure.
4. Zinc
5. Folate
6. Iron
7. Vitamin A
8. Vitamin C
9. Vitamin D
10. Omega 3 fatty acids (modulates the inflammatory response).

DIET PLAN
1. Whole foods diets with lots of lean protein and fresh vegetables
2. Avoid most processed foods, especially those high in simple sugars.
3. Oily fish/Fish oil and fluoride sources (e.g in tooth paste)

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