Gum Disease Risk Factors: Who Is Most at Risk?

Anyone can get gum disease, but some people are more likely to get it, and to have it progress faster. The biggest risk factors are plaque left on the teeth, smoking or vaping, diabetes, hormonal changes such as pregnancy, medications that dry the mouth, and going a long time between professional cleanings. Some people also seem more prone to gum disease than others even with good habits. Knowing which factors apply to you helps you and your dental team decide how closely to watch your gums.

This article explains why gum disease is a serious condition, walks through the risk factors you can change and the ones you can’t, and describes how the Timonium office of Dr. Steven W. Haywood, DDS looks after patients whose gums need extra attention.

Why gum disease is a serious condition

Gum disease can seem minor when it starts with a little bleeding. It deserves to be taken seriously for three reasons.

It is the leading cause of adult tooth loss

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Left untreated, the infection moves from the gums into the tissue and bone that hold the teeth, and it worsens as it progresses through its stages.

Advanced disease can’t be fully cured

Treatment can control and even reverse the early stages of gum disease. Once it has advanced, gum infection can be managed and controlled, but it is never completely cured. That makes early attention especially valuable for people at higher risk.

It is linked to your overall health

The health of your gums has been linked directly to serious health risks such as diabetes and cardiac disease. Infection in the mouth can also spread; read the dangers of oral infections.

Risk factors you can change

Plaque that stays on the teeth

Plaque is the main cause of gum disease. When it isn’t removed every day, it irritates the gums and can harden into tartar that only a professional cleaning removes. Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily are the foundation. If your technique needs a refresh, see smart brushing beats aggressive brushing.

Smoking and vaping

Tobacco is one of the most significant risk factors for gum disease. Smoking can also mask bleeding, so gums may look healthier than they are, and it can slow healing after treatment. Vaping also affects the mouth. Read how smoking and vaping affect your teeth and gums.

Skipping professional cleanings

Tartar below the gumline can’t be removed at home. A professional cleaning every six months is recommended, and people who have already had gum disease may need follow-up care more often. If it has been a while, you are not alone; see been a while since you’ve visited a dentist?

Frequent sugar and poor nutrition

Plaque bacteria thrive on frequent sugar, and a poor diet can make it harder for the body to keep inflammation in check. Frequency matters as much as quantity. See soda spells double trouble for teeth and gums.

Stress

Stress is commonly listed as a risk factor because it can make it harder for the body to fight infection and can push daily routines, including brushing and flossing, down the list.

Risk factors you can manage, but not remove

Diabetes

Gum health and diabetes are linked, and poorly controlled blood sugar can make gum infection harder to control. If you have diabetes, keeping it well managed and keeping your gum checkups work together. Tell the team about any changes in your health.

Medications and dry mouth

Some medications affect the gums, and many reduce saliva. Medications and dry mouth can set the stage for decay, and a dry mouth makes plaque harder to control. Bring a current list of your medications to every visit.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal shifts, such as during pregnancy, can make gums more sensitive to plaque and more likely to bleed. See oral health during pregnancy.

Dental work and crowded teeth

Crowded teeth, bridges and other dental work can create spots that are harder to clean. Under a bridge, for example, a floss threader or similar aid is needed to reach every area.

Grinding and clenching

Uncontrolled grinding destroys comfort, health and appearance as we age, and untreated grinding wear can be costly to repair. It is worth mentioning if you grind, and a comfortable, clear, custom-made bite guard can help protect your teeth.

Risk factors you can’t change

Family history

Some people seem more prone to gum disease than others, even when they take good care of their teeth. If gum disease or early tooth loss runs in your family, tell your dental team so your gums can be watched more closely.

Age

Gum problems tend to become more common as people get older, often because plaque has had more years to do damage and because health conditions and medications add up. Decay rates also increase with age.

How higher-risk patients are cared for in Timonium

Having several risk factors doesn’t mean gum disease is inevitable. It means your gums deserve closer attention. At Dr. Haywood’s practice, that looks like this:

• Hour-long cleanings. Cleaning appointments are a full 60 minutes, so there is time to clean thoroughly and check each area.
• Careful gum measurements. The experienced hygienists measure your gums and track changes over time.
• Oral DNA testing. Testing identifies which of the 11 most suspected periodontal pathogens are present, so any treatment can be more accurate.
• Non-surgical treatment when needed. Ninety-eight percent of the practice’s periodontal therapy is non-surgical, built on scaling and root planing, with site-specific antibiotics, laser therapy, or laser and ozone therapy for a holistic approach.
• A maintenance schedule that fits you. After treatment, follow-up care every 3 to 4 months may be recommended. The practice strives for zero bleeding and zero infection.

For what treatment involves, read effective gum disease treatment. For a holistic, whole-body approach, see holistic dentistry.

Watch for early warning signs

If you have risk factors, pay attention to bleeding, red or swollen gums, receding gums, persistent bad breath, sensitivity and teeth that feel loose. On their own these symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have gum disease, but they are a good reason to have your gums checked. Read the five warning signs of gum disease.

Paying for gum care

The practice is out of network with all dental insurance providers. You pay at the time of your visit, and the office files the claim on your behalf so your plan can reimburse you for whatever it covers. Health savings and flex plans are welcome, and financing is available through CareCredit, with no-interest options for up to 12 months, and Cherry, with plans from 3 to 24 months. See financing options.

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest risk factor for gum disease?

Plaque that isn’t removed is the main cause, and tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors that makes gum disease more likely and harder to control.

Can you get gum disease even if you brush and floss?

Yes. Some people are more prone to it, and conditions such as diabetes, dry mouth or hormonal changes can raise risk. Home care also can’t remove tartar below the gumline, which is why regular professional cleanings matter.

Does gum disease run in families?

Some people seem more prone to gum disease than others. If it runs in your family, let your dental team know so your gums can be monitored closely.

Is gum disease serious if it doesn’t hurt?

Yes. Gum disease is often painless, especially early on, but it can still progress, damage the bone that supports your teeth and lead to tooth loss.

Know your risk and protect your gums in Timonium

If you recognize yourself in any of these risk factors, a gum evaluation is a simple place to start. Request an appointment or call (410) 453-9399. The office of Dr. Steven W. Haywood, DDS is at 108 W Timonium Rd, Ste 200, Timonium, MD 21093, serving Timonium, Towson, Pikesville, Baltimore and the surrounding communities. Learn more about gum disease treatment in Timonium.