Are You at Risk for Periodontal Disease?

Dentists in Westlake regularly see patients who come in complaining of painful or tender gums. Inflamed gums are often caused by a bacterial infection. Left untreated, this infection can quickly develop into periodontal disease or gingivitis. Sufferers who do not visit their periodontist may even require surgery or bone grafts if the damage to the teeth and jaw is extensive. Always visit your dentist for regular check-ups, and keep reading to find out if you may be at risk for developing periodontal disease.

Tobacco Use

Gingivitis is common, and anyone can develop this disease. However, regular smokers are at twice the risk of developing periodontal disease compared with nonsmokers. In fact, the more you smoke, the greater your risk for gum disease. Additionally, once gum damage is present, continuing to smoke makes it harder for your gums to heal. That is because smoking weakens your body’s immune system and lowers its ability to ward off infections.

Dental Problems

Abnormal tooth structures, including crooked or broken teeth, are also risk factors for periodontal disease. Crooked teeth and even poorly made fillings and crowns can trap debris and plaque, causing bacteria to build up. After a prolonged period of time, these bacteria can cause infection. Periodontists also advise that wisdom teeth can be a breeding ground for the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Periodontitis can occur in wisdom teeth that have broken through the gums or teeth that have become impacted.

Pregnancy Complications

Women comprise nearly three-quarters of all visits to the dentist for periodontal disease. Female hormones affect the gums, making women especially susceptible to periodontitis. Hormone changes during pregnancy have been known to trigger existing gingivitis. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can increase the risk of low birth weight in infants and lead to other complications. It is essential to visit your dentist if you are pregnant and already have gingivitis, even if your symptoms are mild. A periodontist can provide antibiotics or other medications to ward off more dangerous infections.