Rx Note

Introduction Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gingival tissue. It is most commonly caused by bacterial infection due to excess plaque buildup on the teeth. Importantly, the condition is entirely preventable with regular and correct toothbrushing . Aetiology After toothbrushing , teeth are soon coated with a mixture of saliva and gingival fluid, known as the pellicle. Oral bacteria and food particles adhere to this coating and begin to proliferate, forming plaque. Routine brushing removes plaque, however, if plaque is allowed to build up for 3 or 4 days, bacteria begin to undergo internal calcification, producing calcium phosphate, better known as tartar (or calculus). This adheres tightly to tooth surfaces and retains bacteria in situ. The bacteria release enzymes and toxins that invade the gingival mucosa, causing inflammation of the gingiva (gingivitis). If the plaque is not removed, the inflammation spreads downwards, involving the periodontal ligament and associated tooth s...

Introduction While not a replacement for daily toothbrushing and flossing , use of mouthwash (also called mouth rinse) may be a helpful addition to the daily oral hygiene routine for some people. Children younger than the age of 6 should not use mouthwash , unless directed by a dentist because they may swallow large amounts of the liquid inadvertently. Types Broadly speaking, there are 2 types of mouthwashes. Cosmetic mouthwashes may temporarily control bad breath and leave behind a pleasant taste, but have no chemical or biological application beyond their temporary benefit. Therapeutic mouthwashes can help reduce or control plaque, gingivitis , bad breath and tooth decay. Active Ingredients in Therapeutic Mouthwash Cetylpyridinium chloride Antimicrobial action. Reduce bad breath , plaque and gingivitis. May cause brown staining of teeth, tongue and/or restorations. Chlorhexidine Treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis. Prevent alveolar osteitis (dry sockets) after a tooth extr...

Introduction Angina (painful), bullosa (blister), haemorrhagica (blood-filled) is a very rare and benign condition of the oral mucous membrane, characterized by the sudden appearance of blood-filled blister(s) within the oral cavity. The first indication is a stinging pain or burning sensation just before the appearance of a blood blister. The risk of recurrence is 30% and the blister may appear on the same or in another location. Causes The exact mechanism of the disease is unclear, but probably multifactorial. More than 50% of the cases are related to minor trauma caused by Hot foods Restorative dentistry (fillings, crowns, etc.) Periodontal therapy Anaesthetic dental injections Treatment The blisters usually rupture in a day or two and heal spontaneously without any further scarring or discomfort. Blood tests may be carried out to rule out a blood disorder (e.g. thrombocytopenia, von Willebrand disease, leukaemia and some vasculitis) No treatment is usually necessary other than a m...

Introduction Chlorhexidine is a bisbiguanide antiseptic and disinfectant that is bactericidal or bacteriostatic against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is more effective against Gram-positive than Gram-negative bacteria, and some species of Pseudomonas and Proteus have low susceptibility. It is relatively ineffective against mycobacteria. Chlorhexidine inhibits some viruses and is active against some fungi. It is inactive against bacterial spores at room temperature. Combinations of chlorhexidine with cetrimide or in alcoholic solution are used to enhance efficacy. Uses For pre-operative skin disinfection and hand-washing , chlorhexidine is used as a 0.5% solution of the acetate or gluconate in alcohol (70%) or as a 2 or 4% detergent solution of the gluconate. Septi-Sol Solution (Ethanol 77% and Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.5%) Softa-Man CHG Cutaneous Solution (Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.5% in Ethanol 80%) SteriPrep (Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% in Alcohol 70%)...