Are You at Risk for Gum Disease

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ARE YOU AT RISK FOR GUM DISEASE?
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Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease,
is a serious concern for your oral health.
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Not only can untreated gum disease cause you to
lose your teeth early, but it has also been
listed as a risk factor for serious conditions
such as premature childbirth and heart disease.
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Fortunately, most cases of gum disease can be
prevented and treated with early detection and
education.
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Here, are the lifestyle factors and behaviors
that increase your risk for developing gum
disease.
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AGE
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Although severe cases of gum disease have been
found in children, it is important to know that
it is a progressive disease.
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For this reason, a persons risk increases with
age and most adults over the age of 65 have some
form of periodontitis.
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TOBACCO AND ALCOHOL USE
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Tobacco and alcohol both reduce blood flow to the
gums and can cause dry mouth, which allows plaque
and tartar to multiply.
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Chronic use of these products can also deplete a
persons vitamin C levels and interfere with
healing of the gums.
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GENETICS
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Occasionally, a person will present with gum
disease despite perfect oral health and hygiene.
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Sometimes, this is due to a genetic disposition.
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Those who know that gum disease is a part of
their family history can have genetic testing
done to determine their risk.
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STRESS
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Prolonged stress is a risk factor for many
chronic illnesses and it can also contribute to
gum disease.
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This could be due to a person slacking off on
their oral hygiene routine due to a lack of
motivation or time.
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However, stress also disrupts the immune system
and can make it harder to fight off gum
infections.
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MEDICATIONS
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There are several commonly prescribed medications
that can contribute to the development of gum
disease.
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For example, oral contraceptives can create
hormonal fluctuations that affect the blood flow
to the gums.
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Other medications can lead to dry mouth or
abnormal bleeding from the gums.
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Therefore, it is important for you to keep your
dentist informed about any medications you
currently take.
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TEETH GRINDING AND CLENCHING
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When you grind or clench your teeth, higher than
normal forces are applied to your gums and their
supporting ligaments.
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Over time the periodontal tissues can be
destroyed thereby making them more susceptible to
infection.
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INFLAMMATORY DISEASES
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If you have a systemic disease that causes
inflammation within your body, then it could also
lead to gum inflammation and infection.
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Talk to your dentist if you have diabetes,
rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease so that
they can help you take measures to prevent gum
disease.
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POOR NUTRITION
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Your gums need vital nutrients and minerals to
stay healthy, just like the rest of your body.
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When you are malnourished, you are less capable
of fighting off infections.
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Fresh fruits and vegetables also help to keep the
gums healthy by gently brushing away plaque and
encouraging blood flow.
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Gum disease is commonly found during a routine
dental exam.
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You should remember that it often shows no
symptoms until it has progressed to the later
stages.
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While good home care, such as regular brushing
and flossing, will help to prevent gum disease,
it is also important to talk to your dentist
about your risk factors.
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This way, you can partner with your dentist to
develop a multi-factor approach that will prevent
gum disease before it affects your health.
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If you are seeking professional dental advice,
it's time to call Shumway Dental Care.
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Their Chandler dentists will ask you questions,
examine you, and determine exactly what needs to
be done to get you back to normal.
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Call today for an appointment. Visit
http//www.mychandlerdentists.com/
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SHUMWAY DENTAL CARE 3150 S Gilbert Rd Suite
1 Chandler, AZ 85286 [phone] shumwaydentalc
are_at_gmail.com