Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a serious and often progressive oral health concern that can cause pain and discomfort and potentially permanent damage to the teeth, gums, and surrounding structures.
Left untreated, it can lead to accelerated tooth decay and an increased risk of other systemic conditions, such as heart problems. So if you want to maintain healthy gums and effectively prevent gum disease, certain behaviors need attention for long-term prevention—and this blog post will discuss some of the most common causes of this affliction. Learn more about how recognizing these risk factors can help protect your mouth from any gum insult.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection caused by bacteria found in plaque buildup around your teeth and gums. In its early stages (gingivitis), gum disease can cause gums to bleed and become swollen and inflamed. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, characterized by severe inflammation, pain, and tooth loss.
Common Causes of Gum Disease
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Poor oral hygiene: If you don't brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup on your teeth, bacteria will accumulate in your mouth and cause inflammation of the gums. Plaque buildup can form along the gum line, becoming tartar if not removed properly. This can lead to gingivitis (inflamed gums) which, left untreated, can turn into periodontitis (gum disease).
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Poor nutrition: Lack of certain nutrients can weaken your gums and make them more susceptible to infection. Nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, folic acid, and zinc play an important role in maintaining healthy gums.
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Hormonal changes: During puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, hormones fluctuate significantly, which can cause an increase in gum sensitivity. This makes them more prone to infection and inflammation.
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Certain medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants or heart medications, can cause dry mouth, which can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth and make you more susceptible to gum disease.
By practicing good oral hygiene habits, avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular dental checkups, and informing your dentist about any medications you're taking, you can help prevent gum disease from developing. If it does develop, early intervention is key for successful treatment. Speak with your dentist if you have any concerns or signs of gum disease.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
1) Brush twice a day: Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste helps remove harmful bacteria from your mouth and prevents plaque buildup on your teeth and gums. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth—both above and below the gumline—for at least two minutes at a time.
2) Floss daily: Flossing once each day is an essential step for oral health and protecting against gum disease. Flossing removes plaque buildup between teeth where brushing can't reach and helps prevent bacteria buildup.
3) Visit your dentist regularly: Regular checkups and cleanings are important for detecting and preventing the early stages of gum disease. See your dentist every six months or as recommended by your dentist to ensure that any signs of gum disease can be detected early and treated quickly.
4) Quit smoking: Smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease, so if you're a smoker, quitting is essential for maintaining healthy gums and teeth.
5) Eat a balanced diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy products will not only help maintain good overall health but also support healthy teeth and gums. Avoid sugary and starchy foods that can lead to plaque buildup.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your gums remain healthy and disease-free. However, if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of gum disease, it's important to visit your dentist for quality dental services.
Conclusion
Gum disease is an oral condition that can wreak havoc on your oral and overall health if untreated. Root scaling is one of the most effective treatments for gum disease, as it addresses the underlying cause of the problem and helps to prevent future gingival issues from developing. Taking and maintaining good care of your teeth also plays a role in keeping your gums healthy. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleaning are key components in promoting oral hygiene and reducing the risk of gum disease.