Causes of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease, sometimes referred to as periodontal disease or periodontitis, is a chronic condition that worsens with time and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Inflammation and irritation of the gingival tissues, which surround and support the teeth, signal the start of gum disease. The toxins present in plaque, which result in a persistent bacterial infection, are the source of this inflammation.

Deep pockets develop between the teeth and the gums as a result of the bacterial infection colonising the gingival tissue. The symptoms of gingivitis, a minor inflammatory condition, are entirely reversible if periodontists are consulted as soon as possible. Periodontal disease, on the other hand, starts by destroying the gums and the jawbone beneath if the bacterial infection is allowed to worsen. This promotes tooth loss. The germs that cause this infection can spread to different parts of the body through the circulation.

Gum Disease's Common Causes

Gum disease can be brought on by both inherited and environmental causes, but in many cases, the chance of getting periodontitis can be greatly reduced by taking preventative steps.

The following are some of the most typical reasons for gum disease:

Dental disease can be prevented by maintaining proper oral hygiene at home and eating a healthy diet. Regular dental checkups that include examinations, cleanings, and x-rays are another component of prevention. The natural dentition and supporting bone structures will be guaranteed and preserved with the help of superior at-home care and expert dental treatment.

The gums and bone around the teeth become harmed by bacteria toxins when calculus (tartar) and bacteria are not eliminated, which can result in gingivitis or periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss.

Smoking and tobacco use are two of the most important risk factors for the onset and progression of gum disease, according to research. Smokers are much more likely to experience severe bone loss, deep pockets in the gingival mucosa, and calculus (tartar) buildup on teeth, in addition to enduring a delayed recovery and healing rate.

Up to 30% of the population may have a substantial genetic vulnerability to gum disease despite following strict oral hygiene practises. When compared to people who do not have a genetic predisposition, these people have a six-fold increased risk of developing periodontal disease. In order to maintain the health of the oral cavity, early intervention and genetic testing can be employed to evaluate susceptibility.

Menopause and pregnancy: Regular brushing and flossing are essential during pregnancy. The gum tissue may become more sensitive as a result of hormonal changes in the body, making it more vulnerable to gum disease.

Chronic stress and a poor diet can make it more likely for bacterial infections to survive the body's defences since stress reduces the immune system's capacity to fight disease. Malnutrition or a poor diet can also have a negative impact on the gums' health and the body's capacity to fight periodontal infections.

Diabetes and undiagnosed medical conditions : Numerous medical disorders, such as respiratory illness, heart disease, arthritis, and osteoporosis, can exacerbate or hasten the beginning and development of gum disease. Diabetes impairs the body's ability to use insulin, which makes it more challenging to regulate and treat the gum infection.

Clenching or grinding your teeth can cause serious harm to the gums and bones that support your teeth.

A "bad bite" or misaligned teeth are typically linked to someone who grinds their teeth. The additional gingival tissue loss brought on by teeth grinding can hasten the illness's course in people who already have gum disease.

Medication: A variety of medications, including oral contraceptives, heart medications, anti-depressants, and steroids, have an impact on the general health of teeth and gums, increasing their susceptibility to gum disease. Steroid use encourages gingival overgrowth, which increases swelling frequency and makes it easier for bacteria to colonise gum tissue.

Taking care of gum disease

Specialists in periodontology treat gum disease and implant dental implants.

Scaling and root planing are excellent cleaning techniques for deep pockets, and a periodontist can also recommend antibiotic and antifungal drugs to treat infection and slow the spread of the illness.

The periodontist can place dental implants if one or more teeth are missing, in addition to doing tissue grafts to encourage natural tissue regeneration in the event of tooth loss. The periodontist can reshape the gingival tissue to produce an even and aesthetically acceptable appearance when gum recession results in a "toothy"-looking grin.

The natural dentition must be protected from periodontal disease. Discussing the root causes of gum disease with your dentist will help you stop periodontal disease's start, progression, and recurrence.