13th Dec 2022

Top 4 Gum Disease Causes You Should Know

Your gums can get infected with gum disease, which is a frequent condition. Gum disease is more likely to affect those over the age of 30 than younger people. Additionally, a little over 70% of people over 65 often have gum disease. Know that you are not alone if you have ever received a gum disease diagnosis. From bleeding gums to jawbone deterioration, there are many different ways that this type of oral infection can manifest itself.

Inflamed or swollen gums might be the first sign of gum disease. The treatment needed at this stage is simple. However, gum disease can worsen if left untreated. Later phases may result in tissue damage and your jawbone losing its volume and mass. Therefore, understanding the root causes of gum disease is very crucial. Early-stage gum disease is indeed highly treatable. However, it is easier to simply avoid gum disease.

1. Bad dental hygiene
Lack of good dental care is the main contributor to gum disease. Dentists advise brushing at least twice daily or right after eating. In addition, to clean your teeth, you should floss at least once every day. Gum disease is more likely to spread if this basic maintenance is not given.

Because of plaque, you should follow the advice from your dentist. Plaque is a bacterial buildup on your teeth that forms in your mouth and is sticky. Plaque may be regularly removed from your teeth by everyday brushing and flossing. You may, however, develop gum disease or tooth decay if it is not removed. Plaque bacteria produce an acid that eats away at the enamel. Plaque accumulation can also cause the gums to recede. 

2. Medical issues 
Keep in mind that gum disease is a condition that affects your gums. Your body will react each time you get an infection. Your immune system mounts defenses to stave off infection in the body but might become weakened by illnesses or medical disorders. Your immune system is, therefore, unable to work correctly. You are more susceptible to acquiring new illnesses if your immune system is compromised. You are also more prone to get gum disease if such is the case. For instance, diseases that affect your body's ability to safeguard itself include cancer and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). 

3. Hormonal fluctuations 
Hormone changes might also contribute to gum disease. The gums become more sensitive as your hormone levels rise. Gum disease is more likely to spread to sensitive gums. Hormonal levels can alter due to medications, menstruation, pregnancy, puberty, and menopause. Age-related changes in hormone levels are also possible. This implies that it's important to keep visiting your dentist regularly.

4. Genetics 
Sometimes, the only additional cause is a family history of gum disease. If numerous members of your close family have gum disease, you should be prepared. You might develop gum disease even if you maintain excellent dental hygiene. However, in order to keep it under control, you will need to see your dentist on a regular basis.

The bottom line 
Going over your oral hygiene practices and singing to care for your teeth properly will help you prevent gum disease. Your gums will stay healthy if you brush twice a day, floss once a day, and use mouthwash. Most dentists advise scheduling a checkup and cleaning twice a year. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits like eating a balanced diet and managing illnesses like diabetes can help avoid severe periodontal disease.