What Are the Causes of Gum Disease?

The bacteria in your mouth feed on any sugar or starch you eat and then release acid as a byproduct of their digestion. This acid attacks and breaks down the enamel on your teeth. Over time, the bacteria will eat away at your gums and bone structure. When enough tissue has been destroyed, teeth become loose and eventually fall out. This is why it’s so important to visit the dentist regularly and have your teeth cleaned professionally. Professional cleanings remove plaque buildup from areas you can’t reach home.

Here are the risk factors that contribute to gum disease:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Brushing your teeth twice each day, flossing between teeth at least once per day, and visiting your dentist for checkups every six months will help keep gum disease at bay. However, if your oral hygiene habits are poor, you can still develop gum disease. For instance, if food particles are not brushed out of the mouth, they can cause bacterial growth in the mouth. Food particles can also cause inflammation of the gums if not removed with brushing or flossing. 

Tobacco Use

Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. These products contain a harmful substance called nicotine, which irritates the gum tissue and causes it to separate from your teeth. Teeth become loose and begin to shift in your mouth as well. Additionally, smokeless tobacco can cause damage to your gums as well as the bone tissue that keeps them in place. If you’re struggling to break your addiction to tobacco, ask your dentist for advice on how to kick the habit for good.

Genetics

Sadly, sometimes gum disease just seems to be a fact of life for you or your family. You may be more susceptible to periodontal disease due to genetics. If this is the case, be sure to keep up with your regular cleanings and exams to help protect your smile from disease.

If you do not have a family history of gum disease, it’s important to continue your proactive oral care routine at home and to visit the dentist at least twice a year. Early detection and treatment are key to protecting your oral health!

Hormones

Hormonal changes can cause gum disease, as can stress. An imbalance of the hormones progesterone and estrogen, which occur during a woman’s menstrual cycle or during pregnancy, can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis – the more severe forms of gum disease.

Stress can also cause hormonal changes in your body and lead to gum inflammation. You may notice your gums bleeding more when you brush or floss your teeth when you’re under a lot of stress.

Medications

Certain medications can also contribute to gum disease, especially if they’re taken for long periods of time. Medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants can all increase your risk for gum disease. Talk to your dentist about which medications you take on a regular basis and what you can do to prevent and treat gum disease.

Please feel free to contact our office at (206) 363-4300 today for more information. You can also visit us at 10004 Aurora Ave N Suite 14, Seattle, WA 98133. We look forward to meeting you!