Family History Affects Your Risk For Gum Disease

There is a lot that you can do to prevent gum disease. Good oral care habits are key to fighting plaque, the sticky substance that builds up on the surface of teeth and irritates the gums. Brush in the morning and at night to cut down on harmful bacteria and plaque. Spend a full two minutes toothbrushing, focusing on the gumline, those hard-to-reach back teeth, and your tongue.

Daily flossing is also essential to help remove substances that can get stuck in between teeth. Eat a balanced diet to make sure your teeth and gums are getting the nutrients that they need to thrive.

Gum disease is another term for periodontal disease, an infection of the gums and other structures that hold your teeth in place (the periodontium). The first stage of the disease is gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis. This advanced form of gum disease can attack the ligaments and bones beneath the gums, eventually leading to tooth loss. It may also be connected with other serious health issues, such as cardiovascular disease.

In the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), the most common symptom is red, tender, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing. As gum disease becomes more advanced (periodontitis), you may also notice the following symptoms: 

• Shrinking gums and longer-looking teeth (gum recession). 

• Bad breath and/or a bad taste in your mouth. 

• Sensitive teeth. 

• Loosening teeth. 

• Shifting teeth. 

• A change in your bite (how your top and bottom teeth fit together). 

• A change in how your dentures, aligners or other appliances fit. 

If gingivitis is addressed before it advances to periodontitis, your gums will be able to recover and heal. However, the damage to your gums, ligaments and bone caused by periodontitis is irreversible and may even lead to tooth loss. So as soon as you notice sore and bleeding gums, book an appointment with your dental professional and stop gum disease in its tracks. 

The main cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. Every day, a sticky substance called plaque builds up on the teeth and around the gum line. If you don’t properly remove the plaque with brushing and flossing, the acid produced by plaque bacteria will irritate and inflame the gum tissue. Eventually, plaque will spread below the gum line. The resulting inflammation causes the gums to pull away from the teeth roots and the supporting structures to break down. 

According to the ADA, other risk factors that can contribute to developing gum disease include: 

• Using tobacco products.

• Diabetes.  

• Pregnancy. 

• Crooked teeth. 

• Certain medications. 

Genetic influence does play a small part in your risk of developing gum disease, but as you can see, it’s one of many factors. You could have no family history of gum disease, but develop it during pregnancy, for example. Or you could be the only person in your family without gum disease because you’re so diligent about your oral hygiene. 

The key point to remember is that genetic disposition does not mean you are automatically destined to have gum disease. By focusing on the factors within your control, you can reduce your overall risk. 

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice diligent oral hygiene. Follow these tips: 

• Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t irritate your gums. 

• Spend a full two minutes toothbrushing, focusing on the gumline, those hard-to-reach back teeth, and your tongue.

• Floss daily to remove plaque, bacteria and food debris from the spaces between your teeth. If you don’t like to floss, try another interdental cleaner like a water flosser instead. 

• Use an antibacterial, anti-plaque mouthwash.

You can also reduce your risk of gum disease with a balanced diet that is low in free sugar. This will help to prevent plaque and give your teeth and gums the nutrients that they need to thrive. And if you’re a smoker, quitting will also make a big positive impact on your gum disease risk. 

See your dentist every six months for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. As well as removing plaque build-up, your dentist can look for signs of gum disease, giving you the chance to address it before it causes any long-term oral health problems.

Ask your family members about their experiences with gum health, and be sure to share this with your dentist. Have your relatives ever been diagnosed with periodontal disease or noticed signs of gingivitis? 

Knowing whether or not gum disease runs in your family will give you more control over your oral health. But ultimately, most of the power is already in your hands. Keep up with your excellent oral hygiene routine, adopt healthy diet and lifestyle habits, and see your dentist every six months, and you’ll have a much greater chance of keeping your smile healthy, regardless of your genes.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.