gum dieaseSince gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss amongst Americans, knowing which factors may cause the disease is key. If you’re aware of the risk factors, then your vigilance can increase. To teach her patients about said risk factors, Dr. Diep Truong, your Richardson, TX dentist, provides the following information.

What Makes Your Smile More Susceptible to the Development of Gum Disease?

  • Age. As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to diseases and illnesses; plus, once an illness has had a chance to invade the body, it takes awhile to get rid of the ailment. This is exactly why older people—especially the ones 65 and over—develop gum disease.
  • Tobacco. Smoking, dipping, and the just the general use of tobacco doesn’t bode well for your teeth because these habits dry-out your mouth. A dryer mouth allows cavity-causing bacteria to attack the enamel. Plus, the use of tobacco products has been linked to cancer and heart disease.
  • Genetics. Unfortunately, genetics have a huge influence on how your teeth turn out. As far as gum disease is concerned, some people have a genetic predisposition to developing the disease. Should you fall into that category, take care to visit your Richardson, TX dentist more often.
  • Stress. When you’re stressed your body begins to breakdown and is often incapable of fighting off diseases. Aside from developing high blood pressure or even cancer, stress can allow gum disease to nestle on and between your teeth.

Talk to Your Viva Dental Dentist about the Effects of Gum Disease

Having gum disease isn’t simply an oral ailment, it can become detrimental to your body as a whole. If you’re interested in learning more about oral illnesses and diseases, consult with Dr. Truong. She can explain how oral diseases also tackle the body. To schedule an appointment with our Richardson, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.