CAUSES OF GINGIVITIS AND GUM DISEASE

Smoking alters the normal function of gum tissue cells and makes your mouth much more vulnerable to infection. Smoking weakens your gums’ defense and makes it much more difficult for them to recover. So whether it’s cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, or pipe smoking, tobacco use greatly increases your risk for gum disease.

As you get older, preventing the damage from gum disease becomes essential. That is why it’s important to maintain good gum health throughout your life.

Older patients can be a greater risk for oral health problems because of declining physical and/or mental status, medications, or lack of routine dental care. Maintaining healthy oral care habits like brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and rinsing with an ADA-Accepted mouthwash like LISTERINE® rinse can help maintain the health of your mouth.

If you or a loved one are struggling to keep up with your oral care routine due to physical limitations, ask your dentist about trying an electric toothbrush or interdental flossers.

If you wear full or partial dentures, follow your dentist’s advice about cleaning your dentures. Brush the denture each day with a brush designed for cleaning dentures or a soft-bristled toothbrush, to remove food deposits and plaque. Your dentist may also recommend placing your dentures in a soaking solution.

During periods of heightened or shifting hormones, the gums become more susceptible to gum disease. If pregnant, or even on a typical monthly menstrual cycle, you may notice an increase in your gums’ sensitivity.

Always talk to your dentist about how to take extra care during these times to help offset the risk. Other factors can lead to gum disease as well, like stress, certain illnesses, and genetic history.