PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND VARIOUS SOURCES OF CHEWING STICKS

Periodontal disease is a bacterial disease-causing dental plaque. This causes swollen, bleeding gums, signs of gingivitis (the earliest stage of periodontal disease), and loosening of the teeth, a sign of severe periodontitis (the advanced stage of disease). Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting dentist regularly (about once every six months, or more often if we have gum disease) can prevent periodontal disease. Oral cavity harbors a diverse and abundant number of complex oral pathogens causing different oral diseases. The development of dental caries and periodontal diseases has been found to be closely associated with several gram- positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Removal of dental plaque is effective in treating gingivitis, preventing periodontal disease and dental caries. Toothbrushing is the most common method used to remove plaque. However, toothbrushes are rare in many third-world countries, where locally available chewing sticks are commonly employed for maintaining dental hygiene. Chewing stick is an easily affordable oral hygiene device. Various Chewing sticks have been used by the majority of people in different parts of world. In this review, we will briefly discuss periodontal disease and various sources of chewing sticks. Key Words: Oral hygiene, Periodontal disease, Miswak