The Major Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissues. It is characterized by inflammation of the gums and minor bleeding while brushing and flossing. If left unattended, gum disease may lead to loss of teeth and gum tissue. Here are its major causes:

1. 1. Plaque

This is the number 1 cause of gum disease. Plaque forms on the gums and the teeth, and it is washed away every day when you brush and floss. If you don’t brush/floss regularly, plaque builds up in the mouth, breeding bacteria. The bacteria attack the gum tissue and this leads to gingivitis.

1. 1. Smoking

Smoking interferes with blood oxygen, weakening the immune system and exposing the body to a number of infections. The mouth becomes vulnerable to the bacteria in plaque, and the body is not strong enough to fight back.

1. 1. Nutritional Deficiencies

A deficiency of vitamin C is bad for the gums. Consuming a lot of carbohydrates and sugar, and not enough water and vitamin C is a near-certain way of getting gum disease.

1. 1. Uneven Teeth

If you have crooked or uneven teeth, or overlapping teeth, you need to visit a dentist and get it fixed. Misaligned teeth give bacteria space to grow (space where toothbrush and floss cannot reach).

1. 1. Hormonal Imbalance

During pregnancy or monthly menstrual cycles, there is an often a hormonal imbalance in the body. This makes the body vulnerable to infection, and the mouth, to gum disease.

If you are at risk of any of the above, visit a dentist as soon as possible. Millions of American adults have early-stage gum disease without knowing it. If the condition is allowed to worsen, it becomes more difficult/expensive to treat.

For all dental issues, please visit Pearland Family Dentistry in Houston, Texas. Call 832-649-7344 to make an appointment.