What are the Main Causes of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is the result of one or more bacterial infections of the gum tissue and is characterized by inflammation, swelling, redness, bleeding, and infection of the bone and root surfaces of teeth. If left untreated it can lead to tooth loss or even death. Gum disease is caused by plaque that builds up over time due to bacteria in your mouth. This plaque has a sticky nature as well as it also contains acids that cause erosion on the enamel surface of your teeth over time.

Although you can get gum disease treated by a dentist in Germantown, TN, remember that prevention is always better than cure. To prevent gum disease effectively, you have to know more about the causes of gum diseases first.

Here are some common causes of gum disease.

 

• Smoking and chewing tobacco

 

Smoking and chewing tobacco can be the main cause of gum disease and also lead to oral cancer. The chemicals in tobacco products irritate the gums for a long period causing gum diseases, this also destroys the blood vessels and leads to complications.

 

• Diabetes, HIV, and some other diseases

 

People who suffer from diabetes and other diseases may suffer from gum diseases due to bad health conditions. Gum disease usually occurs two weeks before you can get diagnosed with a disease such as diabetes. You should try to keep your oral health condition healthy.

 

• Cancer treatments

 

Patients who undergo cancer treatments have a higher risk of developing gum disease. This is because they are having chemotherapy or radiation treatment to kill tumors. You should always be on your guard during cancer treatments because they can lead to gum diseases.

 

• Hormone changes during menopause and pregnancy

 

During menopause, women experience a change in hormone levels, which can be the cause of gum diseases. The same also occurs during pregnancy. Women with gum diseases are likely to suffer from periodontitis or pyorrhea. Pregnancy hormones also restrict blood flow which can lead to periodontitis.

 

• Genetics

 

Genetics can also be one of the causes of gum diseases. If your parents have had gum diseases, then you are likely to get it too. Gum diseases can be caused by genetic factors. Also, if your family has a history of gum disease then your chances of getting them are high.