Unraveling the Mysteries: Investigating the Causes of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal, or gum disease is a common progressive dental problem next to tooth decay that can negatively impact your oral health. It is characterized by the destruction of the tooth-supporting structures like gums and underlying jawbone. Swollen, red, bleeding gums and compromised bone health can be debilitating and eventually end up in tooth loss.
The periodontal treatment in Dieppe, NB for gum disease can be effective only if it addresses the actual cause. Knowing the cause is essential to eradicate the infection and disease from its roots.
| Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a progressive destruction of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth, namely the gums and jawbone. It initially begins as an inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), resulting in red, inflamed, swollen, and bleeding gums, and may gradually progress to the underlying jawbone, causing permanent damage (periodontitis), resulting in mobility and tooth loss. |
What causes periodontal disease?
The following are some of the possible causes of periodontal disease:
Hereditary factors
- People with a genetic predisposition (if a family member suffers from it) are six times more likely to develop periodontal disease.
Compromised oral health due to poor hygiene
- Lack of good oral habits can cause an increase in bacterial infiltration and plaque formation. This leads to the secretion of harmful toxins and acids that damage your teeth and surrounding structures.
- This greatly compromises your oral health and overall well-being.
Tobacco use in the form of smoking
- Smokers are more prone to gingival inflammation and bone loss.
- This is due to the fact that smoking leads to poor healing and recovery rates.
Hormonal Imbalance
- Hormonal fluctuations, as seen during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can wreak havoc on your oral health due to increased blood volume, and gum inflammation.
Chronic stress
- Stress greatly lowers the ability of your immune system to fight off disease. Your body’s defense mechanism is compromised, which causes gum disease.
Poor dietary habits
- A poorly balanced diet or malnutrition can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can also play a vital role in causing gum disease due to impaired healing ability.
Underlying medical conditions
- Certain health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, or respiratory disease can increase your risk of periodontal disease.
- This is mostly attributed to poor healing and recovery rates.
Certain medications
- Drugs such as antihypertensives, oral contraceptive pills, steroids, antihypertensives, and antidepressants can negatively affect the overall health of the teeth and gums. They facilitate bacterial colonization and cause gingival swelling.
Final note
Knowing the cause of periodontal disease is crucial to provide proper management and treatment. Only symptomatic relief is not sufficient since it cannot resolve your dental issues completely and permanently.
