Does Gum Disease Run In Your Family? 4 Other Issues That Can Also Increase Your Risk

If gum disease runs in your family, you need to take steps to protect your teeth. Gum disease may be hereditary, but that doesn't mean you'll develop it in your lifetime. However, it does increase your risk of developing the disease. Unfortunately, gum disease can lead to bone loss and to premature tooth loss. If gum disease runs in your family, you need to do everything you can to protect your teeth. Here are four issues that can work against you in your fight to prevent gum disease.

Poor Oral Hygiene

When you have a genetic predisposition for gum disease, you can't afford to avoid proper oral hygiene. In fact, if you're genetically predisposed to gum disease, you need to spend even more time caring for your teeth. Poor oral hygiene habits can increase your risk of developing the disease. To protect your teeth and gums, it's crucial that you brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, and that you visit your dentist at least twice a year. It's also important for you to floss after every meal. That way, you get rid of the food particles that could lead to gum disease and tooth decay.

Increased Stress

It's no surprise that stress affects your health. However, it might be a surprise to find out that stress affects your teeth and gums. In fact, increased stress can dramatically increase your risk of developing gum disease. If gum disease runs in your family, you need to take steps to reduce the stress in your life. Sign up for a yoga class, or add daily meditation to your routine. Reducing the stress in your life can reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

Medical Conditions

In addition to stress and poor oral hygiene, certain medical conditions can also increase your risk of developing gum disease. Diabetes is one disease that can dramatically increase your risk of developing gum disease. Unfortunately, once you've developed gum disease, it can work to undermine your ability to control your diabetes. If you've been diagnosed with diabetes, it's essential that you work with your doctor to keep the symptoms under control. You should also increase your trips to the dentist and ensure proper oral hygiene.

Cigarette Smoking

Cigarette smoking has been found to have a wide variety of adverse affects on your body; including on your teeth and gums. In fact, if you smoke cigarettes, you're at an increased risk for developing gum disease. That's because smoking slows down the blood flow to your gums and hinders proper circulation. It also makes it more difficult for your body to naturally fight off infections. If gum disease runs in your family, you need to stop smoking as soon as possible.

Talk to a dentist for more help.