What Causes Poor Gum Health?

To have the healthiest smile possible, it’s important to have healthy gums. That can be a challenge for a variety of reasons. Thankfully our Corpus Christi dental practice offers the latest restorative dentistry treatments that help address periodontal disease and gum recession.

Of course, prevention is always the best policy. With that in mind, let’s consider the common causes of poor gum health and offer pointers on how you can prevent periodontal disease and recession.

Poor Oral Hygiene

If you don’t brush and floss regularly, you put your teeth and gums at serious risk. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss at least once a night. Ideally you should consider brushing and flossing after every meal.

Aggressive Brushing and Flossing

When you brush and floss in an aggressive manner, this can do a lot of harm to the gums as well as your teeth. To prevent gum recession from trauma, be sure to brush gently with a soft-bristled tooth brush and floss with care.

Use of Tobacco Products

Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco can increase your risk of lung disease, heart disease, and cancer. These substances can also increase your risk of experiencing gum recession and gum disease. Consider these facts just another good reason to quit.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Teeth grinding can lead to tooth fractures of varying degrees. This clenching and gnashing of the teeth can also place stress on the gums and make gum recession more likely. Speak with your dentist if you suspect you suffer from teeth grinding.

Crooked Teeth (Malocclusion)

Crooked teeth can lead to an increased risk of teeth grinding as well as excessive stress on part of the mouth, leading to gum recession. Orthodontic treatment is generally your best option for addressing these sorts of issues.

Bad Diet

A diet that’s full of junk food and soda means cavities and gum disease more likely. Since you are what you eat, consider a diet that’s rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, and try to avoid soda since it can have multiple negative effects on your dental and general health.

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can cause dry mouth, which makes a number of dental health problems more likely, such as gum disease and recession. Be sure to discuss all side effects with your doctor and to drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and fight dry mouth.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more likely to suffer from infections, including gum disease. Because of this, it’s important for diabetics to eat right, monitor their blood sugar, and keep their diabetes under control at all times.

Changes in Hormones

Hormonal imbalances can lead to periodontal health challenges, with gum disease more likely in adolescence as well as during a woman’s cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. Since these imbalances are often unavoidable, the best option is to practice good oral hygiene at all times.

Genetics and Family History

Some people are simply more likely to experience gum disease and tooth decay because of their genes. While it can be challenging, these patients can prevent cavities and periodontal problems with diligent oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.

Learn More About Periodontal Health

For more information about gum disease, gum recession, and improving your periodontal health, we encourage you to contact our general and cosmetic dentistry center today. We are here to enhance your smile.