Periodontal or gum disease is one of the most common and
potentially devastating oral disease. There are several types of
periodontal disease. All are started by a bacterial infection that destroys the
gums, bone, and ligaments supporting the teeth.
Periodontal disease progresses
silently, often without pain or overt symptoms that would alert you to its presence.
It may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly.
The main cause of gum disease is plaque, but other factors
affect the health of your gums
Inadequate Oral Hygiene
Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria begin infecting the gums and surrounding tissues.
missing daily brushing and flossing allows the bacteria to form a sticky
network of plaque. Eventually, bacteria can create an infection in the gums and
underlying bone structure, causing periodontal disease. Poor nutrition can also
be a risk factor for gum disease.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Not only are tobacco products hazardous to your lungs and other parts of
your body, smokers are also at a higher risk for periodontal disease. Smoking
lowers your immune system and makes you more susceptible to the infections that
cause periodontal disease. The stains that accumulate because of smoking also
increase plaque accumulation. Smoking also dries out your mouth, which reduces
the saliva your mouth needs to remove bacteria.
Pregnancy
Female hormones affect the gums and can exacerbate existing gingivitis.
Many women find that the hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause or worsen
gum disease. The disease often begins around the second month and peaks around
the eighth month, though it usually abates in the months after birth.
Medications
Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives, anti-depressants,
and certain heart medicines, can affect your oral health. Just as you notify
your pharmacist and other health care providers of all medicines you are taking
and any changes in your overall health, you should also inform your dental care
provider.
Genetics
Approximately 30% of the population has a genetic predisposition for gum
disease. Studies also show that children with parents with periodontal disease
are 12 times more likely to have the bacteria that cause plaque build-up and
gum disease.
Stress
Stress is linked to many serious conditions such as
hypertension, cancer, and numerous other health problems. Stress also is a risk
factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it
more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including gum disease
Clenching or Grinding your Teeth
Clenching or
grinding your teeth can put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth
and could speed up the rate at which these periodontal tissues are destroyed.
Other Contributing Factors
while bacteria growth is the main cause of periodontal disease, other periodontal
disease risk factors include:
- Age
Risk
- Poor
Nutrition and obesity
- Diabetes
- Systemic
diseases
- Vitamin
deficiencies
Reduce your risk of periodontal disease by practicing
healthy oral hygiene habits and scheduling regular dental appointments for
full assessment of your teeth and gums.
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