Xerophthalmia


Xerophthalmia, which occurs mainly in developing countries, means dryness of the eye. The condition is caused by a dietary deficiency of vitamin A.

Left untreated, xerophthalmia leads to chronic infection and the cornea (the transparent part of the front of the eye) may soften and perforate. Infection may then spread inside the eye and blindness may result. Artificial tears may relieve dryness, but the main treatment is large doses of vitamin A.

Caries

Medical term for tooth decay .Dental caries begin when bacteria in plaque eat away at the outer layer (enamel or cementum) of a tooth. Normally, these layers are strong enough to withstand invasion, but when the residue of built up food (plaque) remains on the teeth, it gives the bacteria a chance to work more steadily.

Tooth decay may start as a small spot on a tooth. Left untreated, it can destroy teeth, gums and even the bone around the teeth. The bacteria work their way into the tooth and into the pulp. The further the bacteria go, the more damage is done.

Early stage caries often go unnoticed. As the tooth deteriorates. it becomes increasingly sensitive to sweet, hot, or cold food. Removing the decayed area and filing the cavity is the usual form of treatment. For severe cases, removal of the tooth pulp (root canal treatment) or the tooth itself (dental extraction) is necessary.

People can prevent caries by reducing the amount of sugar and other refined carbohydrates in their diet. The next step is proper oral hygiene. The fluoride in toothpaste and fluoridated water strengthens enamel.

Gingivitis

Inflammation of the gums. Like the teeth, the gums (gingiva) are affected by plaque build up. Failure to brush and floss properly can result in an infection with bacteria that destroy the gums and the bones and teeth around them.

Most people pay insufficient attention to their gums and may be unaware of any trouble in this area until symptoms occur. In the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), the gums bleed easily during tooth brushing. There may be pain and tenderness, the gums may be swollen, and there may be a discharge of pus, especially as the disease progresses.

Gingivitis can often be reversed simply through proper dental hygiene, including brushing regularly and flossing carefully. The use of either dental floss or interdentally stimulators is essential in keeping the gums healthy and strong. Failure to take care of the teeth and gums can result in a worsening of the inflammation, to the point that the damage is no longer reversible and more extreme measures must be taken.. The gums can recede to the point that even healthy teeth can loosen and fall out.



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