Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious condition that affects the gums, bones, and other structures that support and surround the teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease can cause tooth loss, bad breath, and other serious oral health issues. To help prevent the development or worsening of periodontal disease, it is important to understand what makes it worse.
Risk Factors
Certain risk factors can make a person more likely to develop periodontal disease, or make existing periodontal disease worse. These risk factors include:
Tobacco Use: Tobacco use is one of the strongest risk factors for periodontal disease. Smoking and chewing tobacco can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, as well as make existing periodontal disease worse.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can also increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, or make existing periodontal disease worse. This includes not brushing and flossing regularly, or not brushing and flossing correctly.
Certain Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, or make existing periodontal disease worse.
Certain Medications: Certain medications, including those used to treat depression, anxiety, or high blood pressure, can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, or make existing periodontal disease worse.
Preventive Measures
To help prevent the development or worsening of periodontal disease, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits and to see a dentist regularly. Additionally, it is important to quit smoking or using other forms of tobacco, and to manage any underlying medical conditions.
Good oral hygiene habits include brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, and flossing at least once a day. It is also important to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste, and to replace the toothbrush every three months. Furthermore, it is important to see a dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and professional cleanings.
Quitting smoking or using other forms of tobacco is also important. Additionally, it is important to manage any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, and to take any medications as prescribed.
By following these preventive measures, it is possible to help prevent the development or worsening of periodontal disease.