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Gum disease, also known in dentistry as periodontitis, is a bacterial infection in the gums. It generally begins as gingivitis, which is when the gums become red and swollen. If left untreated, gum disease can become severe. It can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

The risk factors that result in gum disease include:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Improper brushing and flossing can lead to gum disease. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth daily, food particles and bacteria can work their way beneath your gums. The plaque that forms on your teeth can irritate your gum tissue, causing it to swell and eventually eroding the bone that holds your teeth in place.

Tobacco Use

Smoking or chewing tobacco can have a number of harmful effects on your oral health. Tobacco use increases your risk of gum disease, tooth loss, oral cancer, and bad breath. Since smoking and chewing tobacco are also linked to cardiovascular issues, quitting them can improve your health overall.

A high-potency mouthwash or rinse can also help if you smoke or chew tobacco. These products help remove tobacco residue and plaque from the mouth, which can help prevent further damage.

Genetics

Some people are simply born with more susceptibility to gum disease than others. There are often genetic variants and traits that increase the risk of gum disease. However, genetics do not guarantee that gum disease will develop.

If you have a family history of gum disease, you may benefit from more frequent dental visits, as well as cleanings and checkups.

Other Medical Conditions

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection. When your body is infected by harmful bacteria, it’s harder for your body to fight off other infections. Because of this, patients with gum disease may also have an increased risk of developing pneumonia or heart disease.

Medications

One common medication that can cause gum disease is birth control. The hormones in birth control pills can cause inflammation of the gums, which can lead to gum disease. However, if a patient takes several birth control pills, the hormones may cause the gums to become better balanced.

Hormonal Changes

Gum disease is caused by hormonal changes. Hormonal changes throughout life can make gums more sensitive, which is one reason gum disease is more common in women. Hormonal changes can also cause gums to swell, making them more likely to become inflamed or bleed.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also contribute to gum disease, as can taking certain medications.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes hormonal changes, which typically lead to gum sensitivity. As a result, women are more likely to experience bleeding gums during pregnancy. This can also be a sign of gingivitis. However, hormonal changes can also affect other parts of the body.

Some women experience a loosening and shifting of their teeth during pregnancy. This is usually temporary, and the teeth will usually tighten back up after the baby is born.

Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth

Clenching or grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel and put you at risk of developing gum disease. This can be corrected by wearing a nightguard to bed and learning how to control your stress.

Clenching or grinding your teeth can also be caused by stress. This can occur during the day while you’re at work or at night while you’re sleeping.

Stress can cause inflammation in your mouth, which can make you more susceptible to gum disease.

Obesity

Obesity is a major contributor to gum disease because it can lead to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances. These conditions all play a role in the development of gum disease. In addition, poor nutrition and reduced physical activity can lead to weight gain, and this can also lead to gum disease.

If you wish to learn more about our dental services, we are here to help you. Call our clinic, Samir T. Ayoub Dental Corp., at 16505 Clark Ave, Bellflower, California (90706) at (562) 925-2223 and book an appointment with Dr. Samir T. Ayoub.