Gum Disease

Gum Disease can lead to serious problems!

What are some of the causes of Gum Disease?

According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), although plaque is the 'primary' cause of periodontal disease, they state that other factors can increase or contribute including:

Tobacco use - one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of periodontitis. People who smoke are seven times more likely to get periodontitis than nonsmokers, and smoking can lower the chances of success of some treatments.

Hormonal changes - may make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis to develop.

Stress - may make it difficult for the body's immune system to fight off infection and thus contribute to gingivitis.

Medications - can affect oral health because they lessen the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums. Some drugs, such as the anticonvulsant medication and anti-angina drugs, can cause abnormal growth of gum tissue.

Poor nutrition - may make it difficult for the immune system to fight off infection, especially if the diet is low in important nutrients. The bacteria that cause periodontal disease do well in acidic environments. Consuming sugars and other foods that increase the acidity in the mouth increases bacteria.

Illnesses - may affect the condition of your gums. This includes diseases such as cancer or AIDS that interfere with the immune system.

Clenching and grinding teeth - may put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could speed up the rate at which these tissues are destroyed.

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* DENTALPLANS.COM, INC., a licensed Florida Discount Medical Plan Organization, 8100 S.W. 10th Street Suite #2000, Plantation, FL 33324. Plans and Programs offered by DentalPlans.com are not health insurance policies. Plans and Programs offered by DentalPlans.com provide discounts at certain health care providers for medical services. Plans and Programs offered by DentalPlans.com do not make payments directly to the providers of medical services. The Plan or Program member is obligated to pay for all health care services but will receive a discount from those health care providers who have contracted with the Plan, Program or discount plan organization.