Periodontitis, known colloquially as gum disease, is a condition that results in painful, inflamed gums. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious infections in your mouth, which can compromise your immune system, lead to further complications in your body, and stack up some serious medical bills.
The good news is that while gum disease is fairly prevalent, it is easily preventable. Keep reading to learn about the most common causes of gum disease, and what you can do to avoid them.
Medicines and Family History
Like many of your personal characteristics, your genetics play a major role in your gum disease risk. A genetic predisposition to gum disease can be a key factor in determining your propensity to develop it, and you should consult a dental professional if members of your family have experienced gum disease symptoms. Being aware of your risk factors ahead of time and adjusting your oral hygiene accordingly can save your money on costly dental procedures down the line.
On the other side of the coin, the changes that occur in your body as a result of medications can create a predisposition to gum disease. Medications that have an impact on your hormones, especially for women, can sometimes result in plaque buildup or gum inflammation. Additionally, prescription drugs that list “dry mouth” as a side effect could lead to a more active breeding ground for bacteria. Be sure to ask your doctor about the risks and side effects of your prescriptions.
Food and Substance Use
What you put in your mouth, unsurprisingly, has a large effect on your oral health. A diet that is high in sugar and processed carbohydrates provides ample fuel for bacteria in your mouth to produce plaque. If you are deficient in vitamin C, or don’t consume enough water, you are also putting your teeth at a disadvantage when it comes to their defense against bacteria.
Smoking or chewing tobacco will also introduce contaminants into your oral cavity, putting you at a much more elevated risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which will undoubtedly lead to the need for corrective dental procedures. Cigarettes interfere with the normal functioning of your gum tissues and can set the stage for gum disease to take hold. Maintaining a low-sugar diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding harmful substances will put your gums in the healthiest position.
Plaque Buildup
The most common cause of gum disease is undoubtedly plaque buildup. Plaque naturally accumulates on your teeth as a result of the bacteria in your mouth; thus, poor oral hygiene habits are the main cause of gum disease. Thankfully, your best defense against plaque lies in your own hands. Proper oral hygiene is the most important step you can take to preserving your healthy gums and staving off infections and gum disease.
Brush the Right Way with Grïppi
An effective oral hygiene plan starts with the right brushing regimen. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day, placing the brush at a 45 degree angle to your gums. This helps eliminate the maximum amount of plaque at your gum line, protecting the roots of your teeth from buildup and cavities.
We recommend the Grïppi toothbrush, which is specifically and medically designed to contact your gum line at a 45 degree angle for optimal performance and health. Browse the various brush options that Grïppi offers here to experience a proper clean and give your smile a makeover.
Prioritize Your Oral Health with Accent Dental Group
If you want to know if you are brushing correctly, contact Accent Dental Group. Our friendly staff and advanced dental technology will provide all the tools and advice you need to give your smile a makeover. Find out more at our website: accentdentalgroup.com.