Gum disease is a severe infection of the gums that can leave your teeth and oral tissues seriously damaged if left untreated. It can also result in your teeth getting loose, increasing your chances of suffering complete tooth loss. While this condition is common, it can be prevented easily with timely diagnosis. The prevalent cause of gum infection is a build-up of bacteria and dental plaque. However, there are other things that can affect the health of your gums and teeth. 

Read on to learn about the eight most common factors that can impact your dental health. 

1. Age
According to a recent study, gum disease is common among the elderly. This type of gum infection affects more than 70% of people over the age of 65 in the United States. This is because as you become older, your gums thin, revealing the tooth's base and underlying roots. Bacteria can then build up in these sensitive places, causing irritation and deterioration.

2. Tobacco use and smoking
Tobacco products are linked to a variety of illnesses, including heart disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, many individuals are unaware that smoking and using things like snus, e-cigarettes, and vapes are also major causes of gum disease. Numerous studies state that tobacco usage promotes plaque accumulation and reduces the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream, making it more difficult for diseased gums to heal. 

3. Teeth grinding
When you clench or grind your teeth, you exert a lot of pressure on their supportive tissues. This can cause your teeth to loosen and your gum pockets to expand. Infectious bacteria will then accumulate in your mouth, causing gum disease and jawbone deterioration.

4. Genetics
According to experts, some people are genetically predisposed to gum diseases, regardless of their oral care or personal behaviors. To keep your gum line and teeth healthy, determine your predisposition with a genetic test before you have any indications of disease and receive timely expert treatment.

5. Stressful lifestyle
Constant stress might increase your risk of developing health problems like hypertension, cancer, obesity, diabetes, and gastrointestinal issues. An increased incidence of gum disease has also been related to stress and worry. Various studies show that nervous strain and stress make it more difficult for your immune system to fight diseases, including periodontal disease.

6. Medications
Birth control pills, depression medications, and some heart disease meds can all have a harmful impact on your dental health. You should tell your dental expert about all medications you're taking and any health concerns you're having, just like you should tell your pharmacist and other health care providers.

7. Other systemic disorders
Certain systemic disorders can result in a weakened immune system, allowing bacteria to damage your gums more easily. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cognitive impairment, and cancer are only a few of these health problems.

8. Poor nutrition and obesity
When your body lacks necessary nutrients, your immune system may be unable to adequately combat bacteria. Poor nutrition can aggravate the state of your gums since gum disease is caused by bacteria in tooth plaque. Furthermore, research shows that being overweight also increases your chance of gum infection.

The bottom line
If you want to keep your gums and teeth healthy, consider quitting smoking, lowering your stress levels, and altering your medications if they're bad for your gum line. Aside from that, make routine dental cleanings and exams your main priority. If you’re diagnosed with a systemic disease, speak with your doctor about the most efficient strategies to manage your symptoms.