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Periodontal Disease Risk Factors Austin TX
Periodontal disease affects millions of Americans each year. Although men and women of all ages suffer from the condition, there are certain factors that can dramatically raise your risk of developing periodontal disease. This condition occurs when bacteria gather in pockets in your gums. Therefore, poor dental care and compromised physical health are some of the most significant periodontal disease risk factors. If you are at a higher risk for this condition, it is important to be extra vigilant about your dental health. Careful at-home care and routine visits to Austin Laser Dentist can help to combat the condition and keep your smile healthy.
Dental Hygiene and Periodontal Disease
Because gum disease results from a buildup of oral bacteria, insufficient dental care is the biggest contributing factor to periodontal disease. Daily brushing and flossing are essential if you want to maintain your healthy smile. For optimal oral health, you should brush at least twice a day. You should also floss and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash daily. However, even the most vigilant at-home dental care cannot provide complete dental protection. Therefore, you should schedule dental exams with Dr. Helen E. Ragsdale on an individually determined preventive maintenance schedule. Dr. Ragsdale will conduct a complete exam to look for the early symptoms of periodontitis. Our hygienists will remove plaque and tartar, which only a dental professional can eliminate.
Tobacco Use and Periodontal Disease
You probably know that tobacco use can lead to cancer and lung disease, but you may not realize that it can increase your risk for gum disease, as well. Tobacco inhibits normal cell function. Therefore, it can affect the way that your gums attach to the underlying jawbone. Tobacco can also weaken the connective fibers that hold your teeth in your mouth. Finally, because smoking leads to a compromised immune system, your body will be less capable of fighting harmful bacteria. The disease may progress more rapidly, and you often may not respond as well to treatment. The longer you smoke, the greater your risk for gum disease. Quitting now is vital to your oral health, even if you have already smoked for many years.
Poor Diet and Periodontal Disease
A poor diet can increase your risk for gum disease for several reasons. First, oral bacteria love refined carbohydrates (breads, cake, cookies, crackers, soda, and sugar). Together they form acid, which will eat into your dental enamel. In a vicious cycle, these disease-causing bacteria thrive in an acidic environment, so they are more likely to move into your soft tissues. Second, insufficient nutrition will suppress your immune system and compromise your ability to fight off infection. To reduce your risk of developing gum disease, you should eat a well-balanced diet, full of whole grains, lean protein, and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables.
Age and Periodontal Disease
According to the CDC, half of all American adults over the age of 30 have gum disease. However, in adults over the age of 65, the prevalence rate jumps dramatically. The organization reports that an estimated 70% of all seniors suffer from gum disease.
Genetics and Periodontal Disease
Gum disease often runs in families. In part, this may be because genetics can influence the function of your immune system. If your parents suffered gum disease, particularly early onset periodontitis or a rapidly developing condition, there is a good chance you may develop the disease, as well. If possible, be aware of your family’s dental health history, and know what treatments have worked for family members in the past.
Oral bacteria is contagious. Never share a tooth brush. Kissing, sharing utensils, and drinking out of the same glass as someone with gum disease can increase your own risk for the condition. If you or a loved one has periodontitis, be extra vigilant about your habits and hygiene.
Do You Have an Increased Risk for Gum Disease?
If you are at a high risk of developing gum disease, it is essential that you schedule routine exams with Dr. Ragsdale. Take steps to protect your oral health and call (512)346-4690 today. We have two convenient locations in Austin and Round Rock.