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Posted on 1/27/2016 by Leslie Davis |
 The most common and obvious cause of periodontal gum disease is plaque, but there are many other factors that put you at risk for developing gum disease, such as smoking or tobacco use and poor hygiene. However, there are many other connected risk factors associated with periodontal gum disease that are perhaps not so well known. Medications Some drugs that are used on a daily basis have been linked to increased risk for developing periodontal gum disease. The most common of these drugs are antidepressants, oral contraceptives and those drugs that are taken for the heart. Stress Stress has been linked to many chronic illnesses such as cancer and hypertension, but the not so well known disease that it is associated with is periodontal gum disease. Experts say that stress hinders the body's ability to ward off infections, or periodontal gum disease for instance. Genetics Studies now show that there are some people that are genetically predisposed to developing periodontal gum disease. These individuals, despite their most trying efforts of practicing the most generally effective oral hygiene practices, will still develop periodontal gum disease. However, if genetic testing could prove that such an individual was predestine to battle oral decay, then preventative or rather intervention type measures could be interjected. Age This risk factor may seem somewhat common sense, but is still worth the share as the statistics are rather alarming. Data collected by the Center for Disease Control has revealed that 75 percent of Americans over the age of 65 suffer from periodontitis. Other Disease Other systematic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and heart disease have been proven to hinder the body's inflammatory system and thus may deteriorate the condition of the individual's gums. Grinding TeethExperts say that grinding or clenching the teeth puts additional pressure or force on the gum tissue of which eventually leads to premature degeneration.Knowing if you fall under an increased risk category for periodontal gum disease may give you the upper hand in taking proactive steps, in addition to proper hygiene and diet, to prevent the onset of periodontitis. Please contact us if you have any questions about gum disease. |
Leslie I. Davis, BDS, DDS, PC 13802 W Camino del Sol Suite 103 Sun City West, AZ 85375-4486 Phone: (623) 584-0664 Fax: (623) 584-1728 Hours:
Monday: 7am-3pm Tuesday: 7am-3pm Wednesday: 7am-3pm Thursday: 7am-3pm Friday: Closed Initial Consultations |
