What Causes Poor Gum Health?
When it comes to good dental health, great teeth are just part of the equation. Healthy gums are just as crucial for a good smile. The team at our Bismarck restorative dentistry center have plenty of treatments available for gum disease and gum recession, though prevention is often the best policy.
With this in mind, let's take a moment to consider the most common causes of periodontal health problems. Knowing what they are, you can potentially reduce your risk of gum disease or gum recession.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you don't brush or floss often enough, your risk of tooth decay and gum disease increases immensely. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss at least once a night. Ideally, it's best to brush and floss after every meal.
Aggressive Brushing and Flossing
There's a wrong way to brush and floss, and we don't mean infrequently. Brushing and flossing with too much force can lead to gum recession. Be sure to be gentle and thorough when you're cleaning your teeth.
Use of Tobacco Products
Smoking and the use of chewing tobacco can increase your risk of lung disease, heart disease, and cancer. These can also increase your risks of periodontal disease and gum recession. Consider this yet another great reason to quit.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
When you grind your teeth, the excessive stress on the teeth and jaw can also lead to stress on your gumline, resulting in gum recession. If you suffer from teeth grinding, seek help soon to prevent various dental problems from occurring.
Crooked Teeth/Poor Dental Alignment
When you suffer from poor dental alignment, it can cause teeth grinding as well as excessive stress on your teeth and gums. Orthodontic care is an ideal way to improve the look of your smile as well as your dental health.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
When you do not produce sufficient saliva, this can lead to a heightened risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and acidic erosion. Be sure to hydrate through the day and to consult with your doctor if you suffer from persistent or chronic dry mouth.
Diabetes
Diabetics run the risk of many different health problems, including higher rates of tooth decay and gum disease. If you are a diabetic, be sure to manage your condition and to keep your blood sugar under control.
Poor Diet
If you eat a lot of junk food and consume a lot of soda, you're more likely to suffer from dental health problems. Consider eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, and be sure to reduce your consumption of soda and sugary snacks.
Medication Side Effects
Certain medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect, which can lead to various dental health problems. Be sure to discuss all drug side effects with your doctor. This can help you avoid or address serious health issues as they arise.
Changes in Hormone Balance
People undergo hormone changes as a result of puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and other life changes. These hormone changes can lead to a greater risk of gum disease. Proper oral hygiene can help keep these problems under control.
Genes and Family History
Some people are genetically more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Diligent oral hygiene practices and regular visits to the dentist can help keep the teeth and gum healthy even in these cases.
Learn More About Periodontal Health Issues
For more information about treating and preventing gum disease and recession, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Our team will help you smile with renewed wellness and enhance confidence.
