Causes of Gum Diseases Q&A

Millions of people around the world experience gum disease, a common oral health issue. Gingivitis, a mild form of the disease that causes gum inflammation and irritation, is the most common type of gum disease. Poor oral hygiene practices such as infrequent brushing and flossing are the main causes of gingivitis. Plaque, a bacterial film that sticks to teeth and hardens, can accumulate and lead to swollen and red gums.
 
With proper oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings, gingivitis can often be reversed. Gum disease can be prevented by brushing twice a day, flossing every day, and using mouthwash. In addition, quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and reducing stress can also improve gum health.
 
Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease, if it is not treated properly and promptly. Periodontitis damages the bone and tissues that support the teeth, which can result in tooth loss and other severe oral health issues. To avoid complications, it’s wise to visit the dentist regularly to catch and treat gum disease at an early stage.

Common early signs of gum disease include:
 
• Red, swollen, or tender gums – Gums that are inflamed, swollen, irritated, or tender can be an early indication of gum disease.
• Persistent bad breath – Bad breath that doesn’t go away despite brushing, flossing, or mouthwash use can be a warning sign of gum disease.
• Receding gums – Gums that pull away from the teeth often indicate gum disease.
• Bleeding gums – If your gums bleed easily when you brush or floss, it may be a sign of gum disease.
• Changes to your bite – Gum disease can alter how your teeth bite and chew.
• Loose teeth – As gum disease worsens, teeth may become loose or move.

Gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by oral bacteria that cause plaque and tartar to build up on the teeth and gums. Some of the common causes of gum disease include:
 
• Poor oral hygiene – Insufficient tooth brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up on teeth and gums, which can result in gum disease.
• Use of tobacco products – By interfering with the normal function of gum tissue cells, smoking or using other tobacco products significantly increases the risk of gum disease.
• Bruxism – Grinding or clenching the teeth puts excessive pressure on the gums, often leading to inflammation and eventual gum disease.
• Crooked teeth or dental appliances – Misaligned teeth or poorly fitting dental appliances can make it more challenging to clean teeth properly, increasing the risk of gum disease.
• Poor nutrition – A diet lacking essential nutrients, such as vitamin C, can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of gum disease.

There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing gum disease, such as:
 
• Genetics – Some people are more prone to gum disease due to their genes.
• Age – As gum recession and other oral health concerns are more prevalent in older adults, age is known to raise the risk of gum disease.
• Stress – Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infections such as gum disease.
• Hormonal changes – Hormonal levels change during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. These changes can increase the risk of gum disease.
• Certain medications – Many medications have side effects such as dry mouth, which raises gum disease risk.
• Nutritional deficiencies – Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin C, impact the immune system and raise the risk of gum disease.
• Poor immune function – People with weakened immune systems due to medical conditions such as HIV or cancer are more susceptible to gum disease.
• Diabetes – Diabetes is a risk factor for developing gum disease. This is due to high blood sugar levels that can affect the health of gum tissue.
 
Come to Selective Dental Care to improve your oral health. Call us today to book an appointment, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 3151 South White Road, Suite 203 San Jose, CA 95148. At Selective Dental, our clinic is based around family and cosmetic dentistry, and our top-rated dentists Dr. Henry Chang DDS and Dr. Victoria Vuong DDS provide dental services to San Jose CA by Evergreen Area and surrounding areas! We serve patients from all over Santa Clara County CA: San Jose, Milpitas, Santa Clara, Campbell, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Saratoga, Los Gatos, and beyond!