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Upper Merion Dental Associates

357 South Gulph Rd

King of Prussia, PA  19406

Tel:  (610) 337-2325                

Fax: (610) 337-3863

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Gum Disease - Symptoms & Causes

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease include:

¨ gums that bleed easily, such as during brushing or flossing

¨ red, swollen or tender gums

¨ gums that have pulled away from the teeth

¨ persistent bad breath

¨ pus between the teeth and gums

¨ loose or separating teeth

¨ a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bit

 

The main cause of periodontal (gum) disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth.

The following factors may also affect the health of your gums:

Smoking/Tobacco Use -  Tobacco use is linked with many serious illnesses such as cancer, lung disease and heart disease. Tobacco users are also at increased risk for periodontal disease. Recent studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease.

Genetics -  Research proves that up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. Despite aggressive oral care habits, these people may be six times more likely to develop periodontal disease. Identifying these people with a genetic test before they even show signs of the disease and getting them into early treatment may help them keep their teeth for a lifetime.

Hormones -  Hormonal changes in women occurring from puberty, pregnancy and menopause may affect many of the tissues in your body, including your gums. Your gums may become sensitive, and at times react strongly to the hormonal fluctuations. This may make you more susceptible to gum disease. Recent studies suggest that pregnant women with gum disease are seven times more likely to deliver pre-term, low birth weight babies.

Stress -  Stress is linked to many serious conditions including hypertension, cancer and numerous other health problems. Stress also is a risk factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.

Medications - Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and certain heart medicines, can affect your oral health. Please inform your dental care provider if you are taking any prescription drugs or over the counter medicine regularly.

Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth -  Clenching or grinding your teeth can put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could speed up the rate at which these periodontal tissues are destroyed.

Diabetes -  If you are diabetic, you are at higher risk for developing infections, including periodontal diseases. These infections can impair the ability to process and/or utilize insulin, which may cause your diabetes to be more difficult to control and your infection to be more severe than a non-diabetic.

Poor Nutrition - A diet low in important nutrients can compromise the body's immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infection. Because periodontal disease is a serious infection, poor nutrition can worsen the condition of your gums.