What other factors might contribute to periodontal disease? Although plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease, other factors can affect the health of your gums including:
Smoking/Tobacco Use
Tobacco users are more likely to get periodontal disease and suffer from the more severe forms. Also healing following therapy may take more time.
Pregnancy and Puberty
Some hormonal changes can cause the gums to become red and tender and bleed easily. Any pre-existing periodontal diseases can become more severe.
Stress
Stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.
Medications
Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives, antidepressants and certain heart medicines, can affect oral health. You should always inform your dental care professional of the medicines you are taking and any changes in your health history.
Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth
These habits can put excessive force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could speed up the rate at which these tissues are destroyed.
Diabetes
Periodontal diseases can be more severe in uncontrolled diabetics. In addition, untreated periodontal diseases can make it harder for uncontrolled diabetics to keep their diabetes under control.
Poor Nutrition
A diet low in important nutrients also can make it harder for the body to fight off infection.
Systemic Diseases
Diseases that interfere with the body’s immune system may worsen the condition of the gums.
