Recognizing Causes Of Gum Disease

If you are experiencing inflamed or puffy gums, it could be a sign that you have gum disease such as Gingivitis. Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque buildup on the teeth that keeps the gum line irritated and easily affected by bacteria. The number one cause of gum disease is plaque buildup, which is a thick film of bacteria that forms on gums and teeth that is not removed by daily brushing and flossing.

However, there are other causes of gum infections that can lead to Gingivitis, or worse, periodontitis. Millions of adults suffer from some stage of gum disease, from plaque buildup and other causes. The good news is that if caught early, gum disease can be reversible, which is why understanding how it happens in the first place is a top priority to keeping your smile healthy.

Smoking Can Lead To Gum Disease

Smoking and chewing tobacco are two culprits that can cause gum disease. These habits contain chemicals that interfere with the normal function of gum tissue cells, making your mouth more vulnerable to infections that lead to gum disease. Breaking these habits do wonders for your overall health as well as your oral hygiene.

Biological Changes Put Gums At Risk

Gum disease unfortunately can also be caused by biological changes. Hormonal shifts in women, whether during pregnancy or monthly menstrual cycles, make gums more susceptible to disease. Just because you are female does not mean you will experience problems with your gums, it just means that you will want to take extra care with your oral hygiene in effort to keep your mouth as healthy as possible.

Monitoring Medications

It is also possible that medications may have side effects that reduce saliva production and flow, which can lead to dry mouth, which encourages the spread of bacteria. Keeping your dentist aware of any medication, or changes in medication, that you may be taking is important to keeping your gums in top condition.

Teeth Positions Make A Difference

Dentists can also assist you with possible remedies for any crooked teeth that you may have. While it is common for teeth to overlap or shift over time, a crowded mouth can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria due to the spaces created from misalignments. Plaque can easily build up in these spaces, making proper cleaning difficult.

Help Through Dentistry

Although some gum disease may not be preventable, regular visits to the dentist, reducing plaque buildup, breaking the habit of smoking, and following a healthy oral hygiene plan will all help keep gum disease at bay. Jacas Family Dental will help you develop a treatment plan for any gum related concerns that you may have, as well as keep your smile healthy for years to come.