Gum disease is a condition that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Infection of the gums can also occur, which makes the two pose serious oral health problems that can lead to a number of serious complications.
In most cases, plaque is the primary cause of these conditions. However, other factors can also play a role. Identifying the underlying causes of these conditions is essential to provide effective treatment and prevention.
Here are some likely causes behind your gum disease and infection.
1) Plaque Buildup
Plaque is a sticky bacteria film that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove and can cause serious gum inflammation. When you irritate your gums, it can make them red, swollen, and more likely to bleed. This can lead to gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease.
2) Hormonal Shift
Hormonal changes can cause your gums to become more sensitive and susceptible to infection. This is especially true during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. When these shifts are the reason behind your gum pain, it’s best to seek immediate attention from a dental professional to understand how you can mitigate the problem.
3) Nutrition Deficiencies
Malnutrition is another cause of gum pain. Not getting enough nutrients can lead to bleeding gums. This is especially true if you’re lacking in vitamin C, as it is recognized as a powerful antioxidant that promotes healthy gum tissue. If you have a lot of gum pain and bleeding, you might want to get your blood checked to see if you have a deficiency.
4) Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth can also affect your gums. When your teeth aren’t aligned correctly, they can put pressure on your gums, causing them to become irritated. This can lead to gum pain and bleeding. If you have crooked teeth, you might want to consider going to a dental office and getting braces to fix the problem.
5) Smoking
Smoking is a major cause of gum pain and bleeding. The chemicals in cigarettes can damage your gum tissue, making it more susceptible to infection. If you smoke, you’re at a higher risk of developing and getting gum disease. If you have gum pain and bleeding, you should stop smoking and see a dentist as soon as possible.
6) Medication
Some medicine prescriptions can cause gum pain and bleed as a side effect. If you’re taking any medications, you should discuss those occurrences. If your gum pain and bleeding are caused by a medication, your doctor might be able to prescribe a different medication or change the dosage.
7) Genetics
Some people are more prone to gum disease due to genetics. If gum pain and bleeding are a common occurrence in your family, it’s possible that you have a genetic predisposition to the condition. With a family history of gum disease, you should be especially vigilant about your oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly.
Conclusion
Prevention is the best defense against gum disease and infection. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, is essential. Getting regular dental appointments with a professional can also help reduce the risk of these conditions and rectify your gums’ condition.
Manassas Smiles offers complete dental care services like cosmetic dentistry, dental implants or gum disease treatment under one roof in Northern VA. Get in touch with us today!