What Are the Causes of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums. It can affect one or more teeth. If left untreated, it can damage the bone and tissue that support your teeth. This disease is also referred to as gingivitis or periodontal disease.

There are many factors that can lead to gum disease:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum disease. Improper brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, which may, over time, become a key factor in causing gum disease. Patients should discuss proper dental hygiene with their dentist to ensure that they have a healthy smile for years to come.

Diet

Lack of nutrition can also lead to gum disease in some cases. For example, those with diabetes who limit their intake of sugar can prevent cavities and gum disease. However, people with diabetes are still prone to the buildup of plaque along their gum line. This can cause gum disease to develop as well. 

Smoking

Smokers are more likely to suffer from gum disease than non-smokers. This is because smoking interferes with blood flow to the gums, making it difficult for the tissues to heal from infections or injuries. In addition, smoking also increases the risk of oral cancer and tooth decay. If you use tobacco products of any kind, be sure to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to reduce your risk of developing oral health problems.

In addition to oral problems associated with smoking, you may also experience bad breath and yellowed teeth that can affect your appearance. 

Genetics

Did you know that some people are just “bad” candidates for gum disease because of genetics? Some people just have a predisposition to gum disease, and this can make it much more likely that they will suffer from it. It may be because of a missing or extra tooth that makes it hard to clean your mouth properly, or it could be due to autoimmune disorders in your body like diabetes or lupus that cause weakening of the bones in your jaw or even genetic factors that make fighting off bacteria harder than usual!

No matter the reason, if you have a family history of gum disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings in order to prevent a recurrence. They are one of the best ways to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place! (Of course, brushing and flossing are just as important.)

Hormonal Changes

Hormones cause changes in women’s bodies, which can often affect their oral health, too. For example, menstruation can cause women to experience bleeding gums and swollen tissue in the oral cavity. In addition, pregnancy can also cause hormonal changes that can result in gum disease in pregnant women. It’s recommended that pregnant women see their dentist for regular cleanings and checkups to help ward off gingivitis and other dental health concerns.

Schedule an appointment with McConnell Dental Care if you notice any symptoms of gum disease. Visit us at 263 Country Club Dr #102, Stansbury Park, UT 84074. Contact us at (435) 249-0482 or visit our website to book an appointment with us.