4 Contributing Factors of Gum Disease

Gum disease, known as gingivitis or periodontal disease in its advanced stages, is an inflammatory infection of the gums. It can result in red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad bread, loose teeth, tooth sensitivity, abscessed teeth, and eventually tooth loss. While gum disease can be prevented with regular brushing and flossing, there are a few things that can leave you more vulnerable to the disease.

Tobacco Use – Chewing or smoking tobacco can leave you at risk for gum disease because it weakens your body’s immune system, allowing bacteria to take hold in your mouth. The longer you use tobacco, the higher your risk.

Clenching and Grinding Your Teeth – Tooth grinding or clenching can loosen teeth and create periodontal pockets, an ideal space for bacteria to grow. The stress that often causes tooth grinding (a condition called Bruxism) also weakens your body’s immune system, which can leave your vulnerable to bacterial infections like gingivitis.

Medications – Gum disease is an unfortunate side effect of some medications. Some drugs, particularly those used to treat cancer, high blood pressure, severe pain, depression, allergies, and even cold medicine cause dry mouth. Saliva is important to flush away bacteria in your mouth.

Genetics – Some people are just more predisposed to getting gingivitis. Check with your family to see if it is common among relatives.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of gingivitis, seek gum disease treatment in Chicago from the capable dentists at Kenilworth Dental Associates.