Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, which is also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease is one of the primary causes of tooth loss in adults, and because it is usually painless, many people don’t realize they have this disease until it’s too late.
Gum disease can cause red gums, bad breath, and tender or bleeding gums. Some patients may notice a bad taste in their mouth or a change in the way their teeth fit together. If this condition is left untreated, patients may experience painful infections in their mouths or lose teeth.
The factors that result in gum disease are:
If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, you are putting yourself at risk for gum disease. Bacteria can form plaque on your teeth, which harbors toxins and irritates your gums. The toxins then cause your gums to swell and bleed when you brush.
Smoking causes serious gum disease. It impacts both your gums and your jaw bones, which become weaker and more prone to infection. Smoking is also a leading cause of oral cancer.
If you use tobacco products, talk to your dentist about quitting. Smoking cessation products and quitting tips are available.
Genetics may be to blame for your genetic predisposition to gum disease. If this is the case, the best thing you can do is practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly.
Genetics can play a large role in your oral care. If you have a family history of gum disease, your oral health could be at risk.
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of progesterone and estrogen. These hormones are essential for pregnancy but bad for gums.
Progesterone is a hormone that relaxes muscles, including those in the mouth. This can cause small pockets to develop in the gums. These pockets can trap food and bacteria. Meanwhile, estrogen causes increased blood flow to the gums, which can lead to bleeding.
There are two types of medications that may contribute to gum disease:
1. Some medications, such as those for diabetes or high blood pressure, change the way your body responds to microbes. As a result, your body may not fight off infections as effectively.
2. Some medications, such as those for chemotherapy, can cause dry mouth. A dry mouth can cause gum problems, including gum disease.
If you’re concerned about the effects of medication on your dental health, talk to your dentist. They may adjust your medications or prescribe other treatments, to protect your dental health.
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common medical conditions associated with gum disease. This is because people with diabetes have an increased risk of infections, including gum infections. Studies have found that gum disease is more advanced in people with diabetes than in people with no diabetes.
Hormonal changes can cause inflammation in the mouth, which has been linked to periodontal disease. When a woman is pregnant, her hormones change. This causes the gums to swell, making them more susceptible to plaque. To combat this, she may spend more time brushing and flossing than she normally would.
Clenching and grinding your teeth can significantly damage your gums. These habits cause your enamel to wear down, which exposes your gums to bacteria.
Your teeth may feel sore after clenching or grinding your teeth. Teeth grinding often occurs at night, so you may not realize you’re doing it. Your dentist will be able to tell if you grind your teeth during a checkup.
The foods you eat affect your oral health. A diet high in sugary foods and drinks can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. The same can be said for foods that are highly acidic, such as sodas and energy drinks.
Eating healthy foods such as vegetables, lean proteins, and fruits can help improve your oral health. These foods can help fight the bacteria in your mouth that can lead to gum disease.
If you want to learn more about gum disease, visit 406 Dentistry at 1315 U.S. Hwy 2 W, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States, or call (406) 890-6364 to schedule an appointment.
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, which is also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease …
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, which is also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease …
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, which is also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease …
