Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is inflammation and infection caused by bacteria. If you have bleeding, red, or swollen gums, this is an early sign. Fortunately, your dentist will help you reverse it before it gets worse. If left unchecked, it leads to a weakening of the bone structure and tooth loss—and you could find yourself with dentures instead of natural teeth. Here are the three top causes of gum disease to help you avoid it.

3 Causes of Gum Disease

1. Poor At-Home Oral Hygiene

Proper brushing and flossing habits are vital to maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. You should brush twice a day, gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval. Brush after meals to get rid of food particles as soon as possible. Floss once a day to remove what your toothbrush can’t reach.

2. Skipping Dentist Appointments 

Your twice-yearly cleaning and oral exam gives your mouth a deep clean and removes the plaque buildup that causes gum disease. Your dentist can also apply a fluoride treatment that protects and strengthens the teeth. Dental appointments are also important for early detection of other oral diseases like cancer.

3. Family History & Smoking

A family history of gum disease increases your chances of developing the disease yourself. Reduce them by observing good oral hygiene and not smoking. Smoking weakens your body’s ability to fight infection, making it hard for your gums to stay healthy or heal when they are damaged. According to the CDC, smokers are twice as likely to get gum disease and less likely to respond to treatment.  

Don’t let gum disease get the best of your beautiful smile. Take steps to improve your at-home oral hygiene and make an appointment with a dentist for a cleaning. Your oral health is too important to ignore.

The team at Elberta Dental in Elberta, AL, offers high-quality family dental care in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Whether you need teeth whitening or cleaning, you’ll love having a healthy, beautiful smile. Let the experienced dentists take care of your oral health today. Call (251) 986-3500 to schedule an appointment or contact a staff member on Facebook.