Causes of Gingivitis

Gingivitis, a leading gum disease in American adults, was discussed in the previous post. Background information was provided to serve as a base for the next few posts, all answering common questions people ask when introduced to gingivits.

What Causes Gingivitis?

Plaque is the most common reason people get gingivitis. We've previously discussed the importance of proper oral health care and how to prevent this nearly invisible film layer from forming on your teeth. Since plaque can re-colonize and settle in only 24 hours, it is important to floss and brush daily. If not removed, it will settle and harden beneath your gum tissue, forming tartar, or calculus. It only take 3-4 days for the hardened tartar layer to form below your gum line, and then brushing and flossing become inadequate to remove the tartar. It can only be removed by a health care professional. The most common cause of gingivitis is one that can be prevented without any treatment or medication, merely some self discipline.

According to the Mayo Clinic, plaque is the main cause of gingivitis, but not the only one. Many other things can cause this periodontal disease.

Drugs from numerous prescription and over-the-counter medications for colds and anti-depressants cause a reduction in the amount of saliva produced. The presence of saliva is important as it constantly flushes the teeth, removing bacteria. With a reduced amount of saliva, bacteria grow that much easier in your mouth.

Viral and Fungal Infections are another source of gingivitis. Although bacteria is present in the mouth all the time, the Mayo Clinic gives the example of Oral thrush, where fungus normally found in the mouth grows out of control, forming white sores on the inside of cheeks, tongue, and even the roof of the mouth. These can spread to the tonsils and gums as well.

Other diseases that your body is fighting against can have an effect on your mouth when the disease reaches the cells and tissue of the mouth.

Pregnancy may affect the normal oral health because of the hormone changes. These changes may affect the gums by making them softer and increasing the blood supply. Also, morning sickness associated with pregnancy may make it harder to keep up with normal cleaning due to nausea and vomiting.

Vitamin deficiency of calcium and vitamins B and C, caused by a poor diet may lead to gum diseases. The Mayo Clinic informs that calcium is important to keep bones strong, including the bones supporting the teeth. Vitamin C helps the connective tissues of the gums and helps to remove potentially dangerous oxygen radials. An unbalanced diet, smoking, and eating disorders all lead to a lack of these essential vitamins.

Stay tuned: Treatment and Prevention will be discussed next.