Gum disease can already be difficult to catch on its own, but determining the cause is even harder when you don’t have a periodontist in Frisco to call. If you start to notice your gums feeling puffy, red or inflamed in any way, now is the time to start thinking about your daily oral habits. With that said, there are other circumstances you should know about that can increase your risk for developing gum disease.
Tobacco Use
When smoking or using tobacco (including chewing tobacco), the cells in gum tissue cannot function normally. This puts them at much higher risk of developing infections, including gum disease. If you want to prevent gum disease or have any chance of stopping the current progression of your infection, it’s essential to kick the habit. Decades of research have proven that using tobacco not only increases your risk for gum disease, but many other underlying conditions as well.
Unremoved Plaque
Perhaps the most common cause of gum disease, plaque buildup attacks gum tissue and irritates it. Millions of people deal with gum disease daily, specifically for this reason and it is what causes the inflammation, redness and puffiness in your gums in the first place. When caught early, improved brushing and flossing can work to reverse the symptoms of gum disease. However, more severe cases will require professional treatment (i.e. scaling, root planing, antibiotics etc.)
Prescription Medications
It’s common for certain medications to have side effects that you weren’t aware of previously. This includes dry mouth due to decreased saliva production, which makes it easier for harmful bacteria to thrive. Ask your doctor about these medications and whether or not there are alternatives you can consider or simply be extra diligent about your oral care moving forward.
For Women: Hormones
Either during pregnancy or monthly menstrual cycles, hormones can dramatically fluctuate. While there is no guarantee that you’ll develop gum disease due to hormonal changes, it’s very important to stay on top of your oral care during these specific cycles. Symptoms of gum disease should disappear after pregnancy, but if they don’t, don’t wait to visit a professional for help.
Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
Misalignment makes it much easier for food debris and plaque to develop inside your mouth. This increases plaque buildup, which in turn puts you at higher risk for gum disease. Make sure to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from in between and the sides of teeth.
Poor Nutrition
If you are not getting enough water and vitamin C daily, your gum tissue won’t be getting the nutrients it needs to stay healthy in the long-term. Additionally, if you have a diet that is very high in sugar and carbs, your body has to work harder to fight off bacteria and prevent infections.
Genetics
If you have a family member who has a history of gum disease, it’s imperative that you maintain strict oral care and commit to routine professional exams and cleanings.
Are you struggling with gum disease in Frisco? By visiting a periodontist for care, you’ll get the expertise and personalized treatment you need to fend off infection once and for all!
About the Author
Dr. Zackary A. Carnow is highly trained in diagnosing and treating gum disease of all different severities. If you believe that you have gum disease but aren’t sure what the cause could be, his one-on-one appointments will help you narrow down your potential issue, making long-term care easier to maintain. To schedule an appointment, you can contact him through his website.