What Causes Poor Gum Health and How Can I Prevent It?

If you want to have the healthiest smile possible, it's important that you take good care of your teeth and gums. That means proper oral hygiene and visit your dentist for regular checkups. The team at our Warsaw restorative dentistry practice believes in preventative care as well as in-office treatments.

With that in mind, we want to consider some of the causes of periodontal disease and gum recession. We'll offer some pointers that can help you avoid periodontal disease and gum recession from occurring.

Poor Oral Hygiene

When a person doesn't brush their teeth or floss their teeth regularly, they run a greater risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. This is why good oral hygiene is crucial to having the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible.

Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss your teeth at least once a night. Ideally, brush and floss after every meal.

Brushing and Flossing Too Aggressively

Believe it or not, there is a wrong way to brush your teeth. If you are too aggressive while brushing and flossing, this can damage the gumline and cause gum recession.

When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be sure to be gentle but thorough. When flossing your teeth, be sure to avoid snapping the floss hard and sawing down on your gums.

Smoking and Tobacco Products

Cigars, cigarettes, and chewing tobacco can all lead to serious health issues, such as lung disease, heart disease, and an increased risk of cancer. In addition, tobacco products increase your risk of periodontal disease and gum recession.

If you need help quitting for good, we can direct you toward various resources that make a tobacco-free life a reality.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Teeth grinding refers to the gnashing and shifting of the teeth when a person is asleep. Over time, the stress placed on the teeth can result in tooth fractures as well as gum recession and other problems.

Since there are many different causes of teeth grinding, it's important that you come into for a consultation so a custom treatment plan can be developed just for you.

Diabetes

Diabetes can have a negative impact on various aspects of a person's health. In addition to vision problems, heart disease, and nerve damage, diabetes can also contribute to a heightened risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and gum recession.

If you are a diabetic, be sure to keep your blood sugar monitored and to follow your doctor's orders at all times.

Poor Diet and Nutrition

A diet that's full of junk food, fatty foods, and soft drinks can make you much more prone to bad dental health. Do your best to eat a balanced diet that's rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. To stay properly hydrated, consider water rather than soda.

Changes in Hormones

Hormonal changes, particularly in puberty and during pregnancy, lead to an increased risk of gum disease. The best way to deal with these issues is to practice good oral hygiene.

Genetics and Family History

Sometimes a person will simply have genes that make them more susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay. In these cases, the best thing a person can do is practice excellent oral hygiene and visit their dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

Learn More About Improving the Health of Your Gums

For more information about improving your periodontal health and overall beauty of your smile, be sure to contact our team of experienced cosmetic dentists today. We look forward to your visit and discussing your many dental health options in greater detail.