8 Risk Factors That Can Lead to Gum Disease

Most people will develop some form of gum disease at some point in their life, whether the beginning stages of gingivitis or the more severe stage of periodontitis. Your risk of developing the disease can be influenced by factors that you can and cannot control. When you are aware of these risk factors, you have a better chance of preventing gum disease from worsening or happening at all. See below for 8 common risk factors that can lead to or worsen the disease.

Genetics

Some people are more vulnerable to gum disease because of their genetic background. Research suggests that genetics may play a role in nearly half of all periodontal disease cases, meaning that even diligent brushing and flossing may not be enough to fully offset an inherited susceptibility.¹ Although this can heighten their risk of developing the disease, practicing good oral care and seeing a periodontist regularly can make a significantly positive impact.

Teeth Grinding

Grinding or clenching of the teeth, a condition known as bruxism, puts excess stress on them, which can lead to a faster deterioration of the periodontal tissue and bone in people who already have the disease. If you suspect you grind your teeth, consider a custom nightguard, which can help reduce the damage over time.

Poor Nutrition

Like any part of the body, nutrition plays a key role in keeping your mouth healthy. Diets high in sugar and processed foods can fuel the growth of harmful oral bacteria, while deficiencies in key nutrients like vitamin C can weaken gum tissue and slow healing. Eating a healthy, balanced diet keeps your immune system functioning properly and supports your body’s ability to fight off infection.

Tobacco Use

Smoking significantly increases your risk of developing gum disease and is one of the most significant risk factors a patient can have. Tobacco is a major cause of why many people are resistant to gum disease treatment. Periodontal pockets are often deeper; more plaque tends to collect on the teeth; and more bone is typically lost as the disease progresses in smokers. Vaping and smokeless tobacco products carry similar risks and should also be avoided.

Stress

Stress can make periodontal disease worse and more difficult to treat. This results from a weakened immune system, lowering the body’s ability to fight infection. Chronic stress can also lead to behaviors that harm oral health, such as poor diet, neglecting oral hygiene routines, and teeth grinding — compounding the risk further.

Hormonal Changes

As your hormone levels fluctuate, changes in your mouth can occur, including increased inflammation and bleeding. This is especially common during transitional times such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Pregnant women in particular should be vigilant, as hormonal shifts can cause a condition called pregnancy gingivitis, and some research has linked severe gum disease to preterm birth and low birth weight.²

Certain Diseases

People suffering from certain diseases, like diabetes, have a much higher risk of developing gum disease and are likely to have a more severe case of it. Conversely, studies have proven that having gum disease can lead to systemic diseases, like heart disease and stroke³ — a relationship often referred to as the mouth-body connection. Other conditions that can elevate risk include autoimmune disorders and osteoporosis, which can affect bone density in the jaw.

Medications

Certain medications have the side effect of causing dry mouth. When there is not enough saliva in the mouth, plaque buildup is more likely to occur, as saliva plays an important role in neutralizing acids and washing away bacteria. Additionally, some medications, including certain blood pressure drugs, anticonvulsants, and immunosuppressants, can cause the gums to swell or overgrow, trapping plaque in the process. Always let your periodontist know about any medications you are taking so they can monitor for these effects.

In the end, our experienced periodontist, Dr. Daniel Lauer, encourages patients to do their best to control what risk factors they can and seek a qualified periodontist for further advice on how to prevent or manage gum disease. Many of these risk factors are manageable with the right guidance, and early intervention is always the most effective approach. Should you have any questions, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Lauer to discuss how you can protect your oral health.

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Editor’s note: The original source of this release was published June 5, 2014.