Many things can cause gum disease, but the result is always the same - pain and agony. If patients take care of their mouth and their teeth, however, gum problems can be avoided. In this article, we will look at some common causes of gum and mouth diseases.
Anyone can contract diseases of the gums, but people who do not brush and floss regularly are more at risk than those who do. Gum problems start and progress slowly, which means that the older a person gets, the more at risk they are. Luckily, that also means that children are not at high risk as long as they take care of their teeth. Here are a few things that increases the risk of disease.
Those who smoke or use tobacco products are more prone to gum problems than those who do not. Tobacco interferes with functions that the gum tissue cells normally perform to protect the mouth. Prolonged smoking or tobacco could likely lead to gum issues such as gingivitis. Brushing and flossing will not be enough if a person uses tobacco products regularly.
The leading cause of gum problems is plaque buildup on the teeth and gums. Plaque is a thick film or layer of bacteria that builds up within the mouth, and no amount of brushing or flossing can get rid of it.
This affects mostly women, specifically those who are pregnant or menstruating. The shift in hormones that women experience at this time makes their gums more susceptible to disease. When brushing or flossing, pregnancy can lead to puffy, bloody, inflamed, or irritated gums. This can be very painful to those affected. Unfortunately, because there is higher risk during this time, it is essential that people do not stop taking care of their teeth.
Many drugs and medications can cause the mouth to dry up, reducing saliva and moisture. A dry mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria and other nasties that cause gum issues. People should make sure to check the side effects of any drugs to ensure that they don't put them at higher risk for dry mouth.
Vitamins and minerals, namely Vitamin C and water, are necessary for the health of the gums. Not getting enough vitamins and water can lead to gum problems. These problems will be compounded if sugar and carbs are substited in their place. Poor nutrition can lead to many other health problems but diseases related to the gums is at the top of the list.
Crooked teeth cause misalignments between the teeth that can become infested with disease-causing bacteria. Crooked teeth are quite common, and unless someone has the problem remedied with braces, they will inevitably be at higher risk for gum problems. If a person takes extra time to floss and brush their teeth, they will reduce their risk for disease.
On top of all the natural and environmental things that can cause diseases of the gums, there is also a chance that it runs in the family. If a person's family has a history of gum problems, they should tell their dentist immediately. Dentists can provide patients with medications and treatments that reduces the risk of contracting hereditary gum issues.
In addition to bleeding and sore gums, there are plenty of warning signs of gum problems to be on the lookout for.
Patients should immediately contact their dentist if they notice these signs or symptoms. Catching gum disease in its earliest stages is important for treatment and recovery.
While some of the causes on this list are more common than others, they all play a role in who is affected most by gum disease. Having it run in the family, improper hygiene, and engaging in unhealthy activities for teeth all increase the likelihood of gum problems. High-stress levels and certain health conditions like diabetes can also put a person at higher risk. While taking care of teeth is a good start, regular dental visits are the best way to prevent gum problems.
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