As you may know, gum disease is a severe problem. It often leads to tooth loss, an eroded jawbone, and worse when left untreated. Still, you can reduce your odds of getting this condition. You just need to keep track of the risk factors for gum disease; doing so keeps your gums healthy for the long haul. Luckily, your local Collinsville dentist can tell you about these elements. Read on to learn four major factors that put you at risk of gum disease.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene is a big contributor to gum disease. The tissues around your teeth won’t do well if they aren’t cleaned well enough.
You see, plaque grows below the gumline when you don’t care for your mouth. This film of bacteria can then irritate your gums, greatly infecting them. If left unchecked, the infection will destroy your gum and bone tissues – sometimes with little warning. You’d likely suffer tooth loss in that case.
Old Age
Of course, oral hygiene isn’t the only gum disease risk factor. Another that you should watch for is old age.
Indeed, older adults are the ones most likely to get gum disease. Studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed that fact. Their findings show that over 70% of Americans 65 and older have periodontal disease. As for the reason, being a senior can cause life changes that make the infection probable.
Smoking/Tobacco Use
By now, you probably know that smoking isn’t good for your health. It causes all sorts of bodily issues – cancer, lung disease, etc. That said, were you aware that it can trigger gum disease?
As it happens, tobacco use may be the most significant factor in the onset of gum disease. This nasty habit weakens your immune system over time. As a result, it keeps your body from fighting off the bacteria that can infect your gums. The risk of gum disease will then increase.
Systemic Diseases
While a body problem may seem unrelated to your gums, the two can still have a connection. Many systemic diseases can raise your odds of a gum infection.
In reality, some systemic diseases disrupt your body’s inflammatory system. This effect can make your gums vulnerable to bacteria. For instance, several studies show a link between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
You can’t control everything in your life, but you can manage the risk factors for gum disease. Keep the ones above in mind so your mouth stays healthy.
About the Practice
Collinsville Dental Associates is based in Collinsville, VA. Led by an amazing dental team, our practice offers dental care that’s fit for the whole family. That means we perform preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency oral procedures. Of course, you’ll also find that our office has top-quality treatment for gum disease! For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (276)-647-1494.