What is the main cause of gum disease?

Out of a number of factors poor hygiene is the most common and important factor to cause gum disease. Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing your teeth properly or regularly, can cause plaque to build up on your teeth. Periodontitis is common but largely preventable. It’s usually the result of poor oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental checkups can greatly improve your chances of successful treatment for periodontitis and can also reduce your chance of developing it.

Signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include:

• Swollen or puffy gums
• Bright red, dusky red or purplish gums
• Gums that feel tender when touched
• Gums that bleed easily
• Gums that pull away from your teeth (recede), making your teeth look longer than normal
• New spaces developing between your teeth
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Painful chewing
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Following are the main causes of Gum Diseases:

• Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop.
• Illnesses may also affect the condition of your gums. Diabetes affects the ability of the body to use blood sugar, so the patients with gum diseases are at higher risk of developing infections.
• Medications can also affect your oral health.
• Bad habits like smoking lead to the hardening of gums and thus make it difficult to repair itself.
• Poor oral hygiene habits such as not brushing and flossing daily make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
• One of the important contributing factors is the family history of dental diseases can lead to the development of gingivitis.