What are the Risk Factor of Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a type of gum disease where inflammation of the gums, bone, and supporting structure of the teeth can be observed. This bacterial infection can harm the roots of the teeth as well as the gum tissues which can lead to loosening of the dental ligaments and bones that may result to teeth fall out.

Most dental professionals are one in saying that periodontal disease can be prevented and treated. In order to do this, an individual must follow strict habits of oral care. Good oral hygiene includes cleaning of the teeth by flossing, brushing, and having regular visits to your dentist for routine professional cleanings. This must be accomplished once every six months which is adequate in order to stop the gum disease from spreading.

The problem with gum disease is that most individuals are not aware that this can be prevented. That is why; a visit to your dentist is a must so that you will be properly educated on the proper techniques of regular brushing and flossing. In addition to these routine practices of dental care, visiting your dentist for professional cleaning of the teeth at least twice a year is needed. This is because, brushing and flossing may not be adequate in removing hardened tartar that has formed on the teeth and gum lines over time. Your dentist can also recommend treatment for periodontitis once symptoms of the disease are detected.

There are risk factors that must be avoided which were found out to be probable contributors to the development of periodontitis in your mouth. Smoking has been attributed to be one of the major causes of periodontitits. People who smoke are prone to develop periodontitis than those who don't since this harmful habit is bad for the health and most of all for the gum tissues that are directly affected by it.

Aside from smoking, hormonal changes inside the body also have effects on the health of our gums. Pregnancy gingivitis happens when a woman is pregnant because of the changes in the hormonal activities of the body due to her present condition. Stressful situations can also limit the body's ability to fight off disease hence a person is more susceptible to this when he is under stress.

Medications that are taken for certain illnesses decrease the flow of saliva which is supposed to protect the health of both the gums and teeth. There are also medicines that can cause abnormal growth of gum tissue. When an individual is poorly nourished, progression of many diseases occurs including gum diseases. If you think you already experience the symptoms of gum disease, immediately contact your dentist for the proper assessment and treatment.