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Half of all adult Americans have periodontal disease, which is a serious condition that can lead to gum recession, infection, tooth loss, and even jawbone deterioration. To protect your well-being, it’s important to understand this area of periodontics and what puts you at risk. Below is a brief guide to a few of the most common factors that affect your oral health.  

Who Is Most at Risk of Periodontal Disease?

1. Those With Diabetes

Diabetes impacts the normal regulation of blood sugar levels. As such, individuals who have the condition are at a heightened risk of contracting an infection or suffering from inflammation, which may explain the common link between diabetes and periodontal disease.

2. Individuals Taking Certain Medications

Some medications, including anti-depressants, heart medicine, and oral contraceptives, may increase the likelihood of periodontal disease by inhibiting the flow of saliva. Ask a doctor who specializes in periodontics about what may be contributing to the disease and what you can do about it. 

3. Women Experiencing Hormonal Fluctuations

periodonticsHormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy, may increase the risk of inflammation throughout the body, including the mouth. This problem is so prevalent that experiencing the early stages of gum disease during this time has been called “pregnancy gingivitis.” Fortunately, the issue can be treated before it escalates to periodontal disease, which is irreversible.

4. Smokers

Tobacco use can not only cause cancer, as well as heart and lung disease, but it can also lead to periodontal disease. In fact, evidence suggests that tobacco use poses one of the greatest risks to developing the condition, as it weakens your body’s immune system and prevents it from fighting infections effectively.

 

If you believe you’re at risk for gum disease, visit a qualified dental professional today who specializes in periodontics. The experts from Drs Emery & Scuro, DMD, PC, in Rochester, NY, provide the preventive care and treatment that patients need to fight periodontal disease. To learn more about us, visit our website. You may also schedule an appointment today by calling the dental office at (585) 247-7110.

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