What is pyorrhea?
Pyorrhea, also known as periodontitis, is an oral disease that affects the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. It occurs due to the accumulation of bacteria in dental plaque and tartar, causing inflammation, bleeding, and in advanced cases, tooth loss. Although it can progress silently, early detection is essential to prevent serious complications in oral health.
Is pyorrhea contagious?
Pyorrhea can be transmitted through saliva, for example, through kissing.
However, there is no need to worry or stop kissing your partner, friends, or family. For transmission to occur, the recipient must have a very low immune response or be undergoing periodontal treatment. Additionally, prolonged contact is required, so the disease will never be transmitted by occasional kisses.
It is not necessary to change the way we interact with someone who has periodontal disease, although regular visits to the periodontist and strict oral hygiene habits are recommended, as these reduce the risk of transmission and disease progression.
How can I tell if I have contracted pyorrhea?
There are several symptoms that may indicate the onset of this disease:
- Bleeding gums while brushing or eating
- Noticeable redness of the gums
- Swelling of the gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession, leaving teeth more exposed
- Tooth and gum hypersensitivity
- Loose teeth due to weakened support
If any of these symptoms appear, it is highly recommended to see a periodontics specialist as soon as possible. The professional will perform a dental examination and determine if periodontal treatment, such as dental scaling, is necessary.
Dental scaling is a deep cleaning that reaches the periodontal pockets, where bacteria and tartar accumulate and compromise the stability of molars and teeth.
Natural treatment to prevent pyorrhea
Although people living for years with someone affected by periodontitis have a 20–30% higher risk of developing the disease, very effective preventive measures exist:
- Eliminate or reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Improve diet by increasing intake of vitamin C-rich fruits and natural probiotics
- Reduce stress
- Maintain strict oral hygiene: brush daily after each meal, use dental floss, and rinse with products specifically designed to strengthen the gums
Adopting these habits is crucial to slow the progression of the disease and protect oral health. Remember that prevention and constant care are more effective than any extreme or temporary measures.
How to prevent pyorrhea?
To prevent periodontitis, it is essential to combine good hygiene habits with regular check-ups:
- Visit the dentist or periodontist at least once a year for professional exams and cleanings
- Brush teeth correctly after each meal, using an appropriate toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Use dental floss and mouthwashes specifically designed to remove food particles and bacteria
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that strengthen gums and teeth
- Avoid tobacco and moderate alcohol consumption
- Manage stress, as it can affect oral health
Prevention is the most effective tool to keep gums and teeth healthy and reduce the risk of contagion or development of pyorrhea.
Professional registration Nº 28004040
Degree in Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Madrid
Degree in Dentistry, Complutense University of Madrid
Master’s Degree in Aesthetic Dentistry, Complutense University of Madrid
University Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, San Rafael Hospital, Madrid
University Specialist in Individual and Public Oral Preventive Programs, Complutense University of Madrid
Director of Radiodiagnostic Facilities
Medical Director, Smiling Dental Center
Specialist in Aesthetic Dentistry, Dr. Bruce Crispin, Los Angeles, California
Member of the Spanish Society of Prosthodontics (SEPES)
CPR Course
Advanced English
