Gum Disease 

What are the causes of gum disease? 

Bacterial plaque, a sticky colorless film that forms constantly on tooth surfaces. It is the main cause of periodontal (gum) disease.  

Periodontal (gum) disease includes gingivitis and periodontitis. It may affect just one tooth or many teeth at the same time and are considered serious infections that may lead to eventual tooth loss if left untreated. 

Other than bacterial plaque, there are other known factors that can affect gum health. 

Smoking/ Tobacco Use 

It is interesting to note that tobacco use increases the risk for periodontal disease; as with most serious health illnesses such as cancer, lung & heart disease, and numerous other diseases linked to tobacco use. Recent studies show that tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease. 

Diabetes 

Patients with diabetes are presented with altered blood sugar levels. Diabetes develops either from a deficiency in the production of insulin - a hormone that gives the body the ability to use blood sugars – or the body’s inability to use insulin correctly. 

The American Diabetes Association approximates 16 million Americans as having diabetes; more than half of which remain undiagnosed. 

Diabetics are at higher risk for developing infections – including periodontal diseases. These infections can impair the ability to process and/or utilize insulin, which may cause your diabetes to be more difficult to control and your infection to be more severe than a non-diabetic. 

Stress 

Like smoking/tobacco use, stress is also linked to many serious health conditions such as hypertension & cancer and is also considered a risk factor for the development of periodontal disease. Essentially, stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, hence, the development of periodontal disease. 

Genetics 

Genetic linkages may make 30% of the population susceptible to developing periodontal disease.  Despite oral health awareness and maintenance compliance, this population of patients may be 6 times more likely to develop periodontal disease.   

Genetic tests to identify this patient population even before they show signs and symptoms of the disease and educating them on  interventional treatment may help keep their teeth for a lifetime. 

Puberty, Pregnancy and Menopause in Women 

Women’s health presents with unique needs. There are certain times in a woman’s life when extra care is needed ; as when women mature and change with puberty, menopause and with the special health needs during menstruation or pregnancy. Hormonal changes can make your gums more sensitive to bleeding and present with swelling and some tumor-like growths in between the teeth. Pregnant women being at risk are seven times more likely to deliver preterm with low birth weight babies. 

Medications 

Oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, some heart medicines, and post-transplant medications have shown to affect oral health. It is advisable to divulge all medications being taken to all your health care providers, including your dentist.

Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth 

Excessive force placed on supporting tissues of the teeth from teeth clenching or grinding can increase the rate at which periodontal tissues can get destroyed. Awareness of such eccentric oral habits can be addressed by your dental care provider. 

Poor Nutrition and Obesity 

A diet low in important nutrients can compromise the body’s immune defenses to ward off infections. Poor nutrition can worsen the development of gum disease or progression of already existing gum infection.