Understanding the Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can cause big problems for your oral health. The best way to avoid gum disease is to work closely with your dentist and to understand your risk factors for developing it. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most common risk factors of periodontal disease:

Aging
Many adults over the age of 65 develop some degree of periodontal disease. The body cannot fight off infection as well in later years, which leaves a person much more susceptible to periodontal disease. Certain diseases or medications might also cause periodontal disease as a side effect. Genetics might even play a role in your risk for periodontal disease. If it is common in your family, you should schedule regular dental appointments to try to reduce your risk.

Tobacco Use
The chemicals used to create tobacco products significantly increase your risk for periodontal disease. Researchers believe that smoking and using other tobacco products create some of the biggest risk for periodontal disease. If you currently smoke or use chewing tobacco, quitting can help lower your risk for gum disease and oral cancer.

Stress
If you are continuously stressed out, it could have a serious impact on your oral and overall health. People who are repeatedly stressed out are at a higher risk for developing periodontal disease because their bodies cannot fight off infection as well.

Medications
Certain medications increase the risk for periodontal disease. Oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and some heart medications might put you at a greater risk for developing periodontal disease. It is important to talk to your dentist about any medications that you are taking so he or she can decide if they will affect your oral health.

Work closely with your Denver dentist to find out how you can lower your risk for gum disease and the problems it causes. If you already have periodontal disease, laser gum treatment might be a good solution for you.