What Are the Risk Factors for Gum Disease?

Did your Fort Pierce Dentist tell you that you’re at risk for gum disease? Most of us are so concerned about getting tooth decay or cavities that we pay little to no attention to our gums. People don’t realize that your gum tissues play an important role in holding your teeth in place.  

If your gum health is compromised, you may experience bad breath, tooth loss, and bone loss. Prevention is always better than cure. Learning about the common risk factors of gum disease can help you avoid it. 

Common Risk Factors of Gum Disease 

Poor Oral Hygiene 

How often do you brush your teeth? Do you floss before going to bed? What type of toothbrush do you use? Did you know that poor oral hygiene is one of the major contributors to gum disease? 

If you don’t brush your teeth for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-based toothpaste and if you fail to floss daily, plaque will build up on the surface of your teeth and along the gum line. 

This sticky yellowish biofilm will eventually irritate and inflame your gums, causing gingivitis. Without treatment, it will progress to more advanced stages.  

Smoking Tobacco 

Do you smoke tobacco? If yes, now is the best time to quit. Are you aware that smoking weakens your body’s ability to fend off infection? So, if you’re diagnosed with gum disease, treating it can be challenging. In addition, according to studies, smokers are more prone to develop periodontal disease than non-smokers.  

Therefore, if you’re still smoking, you should think about quitting for your overall health’s sake, especially your gum health.

Do You Need to See a Fort Pierce Dentist?   

If you’re wondering if you’re at risk of gum disease, we can check your dental history and assess the condition of your gums. At Ricard Family Dentistry, we aim to offer all our patients the best possible dental care. Our treatments are precise, quick, comfortable, and affordable. Call us today for an appointment.