Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Periodontal or gum disease affects a high proportion of the population. Cosmetic dentists see hundreds of cases of periodontal disease each week.

Gum disease can cause serious smile and health problems and people want cosmetic dentistry to correct the problems associated with periodontal disease. This article outlines some of the risk factors related to gum disease.

Periodontal Disease Bacteria

Certain bacteria cause gum disease. These bacteria build up in the pockets and gums. The bacteria need to be thoroughly cleaned from the gums by gum or periodontal treatment. The bacteria must be prevented to re grow in the pockets by excellent homecare.

Systemic Disease

Certain systemic diseases such as Diabetes can put people at increased risk to periodontal disease. There may not be a cure for the systemic disease but care and attention must be paid to stop gum disease growth.

Smoking

Studies show that smoking has a link to gum disease. Smokers are believed to be at least 3-4 times at risk to gum disease than non-smokers. It has also been found there is reduced gum inflammation and bleeding in smokers. Why because nicotine exerts local vasoconstriction reducing blood flow and signs of inflammation.

Stress

Studies show that stress is significant risk to gum disease progression. Negative life events are associated with periodontitis.

Genetics

It has been suggested that genetic factors may have an influence on a person’s response to infection or disease progression.

To summarise, there is more than one risk with gum disease. It is important that all these factors and any others be investigated before and during gum disease detection and treatment.

Perfect Smile Spa is a cosmetic dentistry dental practice that treats gum disease