What Are the Common Culprits for Gum Disease

A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that more than half of adults aged 30 years old and above have gum disease. Meanwhile, nine percent suffer from severe gum disease. Family dentistry in Willow Knolls, IL, can help reduce your risk of developing gum disease. So, what causes it, and what puts you at risk of getting a gum infection?

Factors That Put You at Risk of Gum Disease

Plaque Accumulation

The most notorious culprit for nearly all types of oral diseases is plaque. Plaque is a thick, sticky biofilm that contains millions of bacterial species that can form on your teeth and gums. You can remove plaque by brushing, flossing, and swishing an antibacterial mouthwash daily.  

Unfortunately, plaque can develop and accumulate if you don’t practice proper dental hygiene, leading to gum disease. The good news is that it can still be reversed if it is caught during its early stages.  

You can reduce plaque buildup and ultimately lessen your risk of gum disease by establishing a dental care routine and seeing your dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months.  

Smoking and Chewing Tobacco

Did you know that if you chew or smoke tobacco, you are putting yourself at risk of gum disease? In America, smoking is considered one of the major contributors to severe gum disease. Gum disease starts with bacteria beneath your gums.  

When bacteria aren’t removed, they will create plaque and tartar. The buildup of tartar will result in gum disease.  

As the disease progresses, your gum tissues will slowly pull away from your teeth in a condition known as periodontitis. At this point, the disease is irreversible. Now is the best time to quit the habit if you are a smoker.

Hormonal Changes

Hormones can also be blamed for gum disease, particularly for women during their menstrual cycles and pregnancy. If you are pregnant, take extra precautions to maintain your oral health. Be careful when you brush and floss your teeth to avoid irritating and inflaming your gum tissues. If you experience symptoms of gum disease, let your dentist know about it as soon as possible.  

Certain Medications

Certain medications have side effects that make your mouth dry as they reduce saliva production. A dry mouth can encourage bacteria to thrive, allowing them to multiply and wreak havoc in your mouth. Discuss your medications with your medical doctor if you are worried about your gum health.  

Nutritional Deficiency

Are you aware that you could be compromising your gums if you’re not getting sufficient amounts of Vitamin C in your diet? Studies show individuals who have a diet consisting of high carbs and sugars and low on vitamin C and water are more susceptible to gum disease.  

Therefore, if you want to protect your gum health, take vitamin C daily, drink the recommended glasses of water, and have a balanced diet.  

Crooked Teeth

When your teeth are misaligned, you become prone to gum disease because your teeth’s abnormal alignment creates more spaces for plaque and bacteria to build up. If you have crooked teeth, you should get orthodontic treatment.  

Prevent Gum Disease with Family Dentistry in Willow Knolls, IL

You can avoid gum disease by practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding foods high in sugar, and seeing your dentist for weekly checkups and cleanings. At Smalltown Dental, we offer a wide array of dental treatments that will help improve your oral health. Contact us today for an appointment.