Some of us may have experienced having gum disease during adult age. This however is dependent upon how we treat our teeth and mouth and on how we take care of them. Regular brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouth wash are the key to a healthy oral system. Although, there are some cases that no matter how much we take care of our mouth, there are still circumstances that trigger mouth diseases.

What are the factors that cause gum disease? One of the most common causes of this ailment is plaque. Plaque buildup develops from food particles and debris retained in the mouth after drinking or eating. This is prevented with regular brushing and flossing. This is the most common cause sighted however, there also other reason for having gum disease. Hormonal change is also known to be a contributing factor. The imbalances that occur mostly in women happen during the different stages in a woman’s life which are puberty (menstruation), pregnancy and menopause.

This hormonal imbalance makes the gum really sensitive causing the gums to be very prone to abrasion and therefore, gingivitis. Another reason known to precede gingivitis are illnesses. Being sick makes the body’s immune system weak and unable to fight disease causing bacteria. Examples of these would be cancer and HIV which damages the body’s immune system. Another example is diabetes which makes patients more prone to developing mouth infections and gum disease as the body’s ability to use sugar is disrupted.

In addition to illness, medication may also be noted to cause gum disease and other abnormalities in the mouth. These drugs may be in a way triggering your allergens and the body reacts by showing signs on the mouth and gums. Others have the effect of lessening saliva which acts as protective coating of the teeth and gums. If you see the mentioned symptoms after taking the medication, immediately consult your physician that he may possibly have an alternative for it.

Genes may also be one reason for being prone to gingivitis. The habit that is the most common issue causing gingivitis that is second in line from poor oral hygiene is smoking. This is a very damaging habit to the body in a holistic point of view. It damages not only your mouth or gums but also other organs such as the lungs, throat and tongue to name a few. The chemicals contained in the tobacco bring these damaging effects to the body.