Factors that Can Put You at Greater Risk for Gum Disease – and How Your Dentist Can Help!

You might already know that if you don’t brush and floss your smile on a daily basis, you’re much more likely to develop oral conditions like gum disease. But not many realize that there are other factors that can increase your risk – and not all of them are things you can control.

Fortunately, if one or more of these factors applies to you, your dentist can help you build an effective gum disease prevention plan!

Genetics

Genetics can play a role in enamel density and immune system response, which can make it easier or harder for someone to develop gum disease. In other words, if gum disease seems to run in your family, there’s a pretty good chance that it literally does.

Tobacco Usage

The chemicals in all tobacco products do serious damage to your gums and soft oral tissue. This makes your mouth more vulnerable to gum disease-causing bacteria and inflammation. Technically, you can control whether you smoke or not – but needless to say, this isn’t always easy! Kicking the habit can be worth it, though, so don’t hesitate to rely on your support systems when necessary.  

Certain Medications

Oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and some heart disease medications can influence your oral health. It’s a good idea to ask your doctor or psychiatrist about how these medications might increase your risk of gum disease.

Medical Conditions

Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis might not directly cause gum disease, but they can make it more difficult for your body to fight it off. Similarly, hormonal shifts resulting from pregnancy can interfere with your immune and inflammatory response, making it important to keep a close eye on your gums.

Preventive Care for Gum Disease

The best way to nip gum disease in the bud, especially if you’re predisposed to the condition, is to monitor your oral health closely and keep your dentist in the loop. They can provide expert advice for addressing your risk factors, as well as take steps to treat early warning signs of gum disease. With their help, you can minimize your risk and maintain good oral health for years to come!

About the Practice

At Advanced Dental Solutions of Pittsburgh, we recognize that gum disease can be a complicated condition, which is why we’re proud to have three dentists on-staff who are wholly dedicated to our patients’ oral health. Our team won’t judge you for having a red or swollen gumline – we’ll simply provide prompt treatment and help you form an effective preventive plan. If you’re worried about your gum disease risk, please don’t hesitate to call our office at 412-854-2310.