Gum disease is a serious dental issue that can impact your oral and overall health. The condition impacts nearly 50% of Americans over the age of 30 at some point in their lifetime. Roughly half of those who have advanced gum disease are at risk of losing their teeth. Gum disease is preventable so it’s important to regularly visit the dentist and maintain a consistent daily oral care routine. Below you will find the most common causes of gum disease.
Common Causes of Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause a number of issues when it comes to your dental health. Consider the following common causes to ensure your oral health stays in good shape.
Plaque Buildup:
The most common cause of gum disease is a buildup of plaque. Plaque is a thick film of harmful bacteria that sticks to your teeth and gums. You can remove plaque in its early stages through brushing, flossing, and getting regular dental cleanings. However, if left untreated it can cause gum disease.
Misaligned Teeth:
Crooked teeth can make it difficult to get to the hard-to-reach areas around your teeth. Misaligned teeth can also harbor plaque and cause harm to your teeth and gums. Without a consistent daily oral care routine and routine checkups with the dentist, the plaque can build up and cause gum disease.
Tobacco Use:
Smoking and tobacco use can negatively impact your gums. This is because it makes your gums more vulnerable to infections, such as gum disease. Smoking and chewing tobacco harm your oral and overall health. It’s best to avoid smoking and chewing altogether.
Family History:
Family history can slightly increase your risk for gum disease. If you have a close family member who has gum disease, talk with your dentist about it. They can put the information in your medical file and provide you with preventive measures to ensure your oral health stays in good shape.
Hormonal Changes:
Certain hormonal changes can impact the health of your teeth. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and monthly menstrual cycles can increase your risk of gum disease. Pregnancy can cause your gums to become irritated, red, inflamed, puffy, and even bleed. This often goes away once you give birth, but it’s important to consult with your dentist in La Mesa.
Nutritional Deficiencies:
On top of all of your responsibilities, ensuring you have met all your nutritional needs may be on the backburner. However, certain deficiencies can cause issues with your oral health and even lead to gum disease. Not getting enough vitamin C and failing to drink enough water can both increase your risk for gum disease.
Certain Medications:
Some medications can impact your saliva production. Dry mouth can increase your risk for gum disease so it’s important to stay hydrated. A dry mouth is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. If you are at a high risk for gum disease, consult with your doctor about any medications that may impact your saliva production.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is a serious dental issue that requires immediate treatment. Untreated gum disease can cause tooth loss, infection, and can be fatal due to the risk of sepsis in some cases. Common signs of gum disease include the following: tender, swollen, or puffy gums; bad breath, pus or blood between your teeth and gums; and gums that are tender when touched.
If you have any of the symptoms of gum disease, it’s important to get treatment right away. The team at Smiles of La Mesa are skilled in periodontal disease treatment in La Mesa and have helped countless patients restore their dental health. Contact Smiles of La Mesa today to schedule an appointment!
