Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is a serious condition that affects the health of your gums and teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, bone damage, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. It is important to understand the reasons for gum disease in order to prevent it from occurring.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and teeth caused by bacteria that can affect your oral health if not treated properly. Gum disease is a serious condition that affects the health of your gums and teeth and can cause tooth loss and bone damage. If left untreated, gum disease can also increase the risk of heart attack or stroke due to the bacteria entering the bloodstream. Understanding the reasons for gum disease is essential in order to prevent it from occurring.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to periodontal disease. These include:
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can cause plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease. Plaque is a sticky substance that contains bacteria, and it can build up around the gum line if not removed through regular brushing and flossing.
2. Smoking
Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products can cause gum disease because it decreases the amount of oxygen in your mouth, allowing bacteria to grow and spread more easily.
3. Genetics
Some people may be genetically predisposed to gum disease due to weakened immunity or specific periodontal bacteria.
4. Age
Periodontal disease is more likely to occur in people over the age of 40 due to decreased immunity and poor oral hygiene habits.
5. Stress
Stress can make you more susceptible to gum disease because it affects your body’s ability to fight off infection.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
If periodontal disease is detected early, it can be treated with gum disease treatment. This includes scaling and root planing, which involves deep cleaning the teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup. In more severe cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary in order to restore healthy gums and teeth. It is important to visit your dentist in Springfield for gum disease treatment if you think you may have gum disease.
Conclusion
Periodontal disease can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, and understanding the reasons for gum disease is essential for prevention. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetics, age, and stress can all contribute to gum disease.
If gum disease is detected early, periodontal treatment such as scaling and root planing can be used to restore your gums and teeth to a healthy state. Visiting your dentist in Springfield for gum disease treatment if you think you may have gum disease is important in order to prevent further health complications.
