What Causes Plaque-associated Gum Disease?
July 10, 2008 by rainier
Most people develop some dental plaque, but not everyone with plaque develops gum disease. Dental plaque contains many different types of bacteria (germs) and some types of bacteria are associated with developing gum disease. The gums can often resist, or limit, the invasion of bacteria. It is thought that a more marked gingivitis, which leads to periodontitis, is more likely to develop if you have a lot of plaque and/or your defence or resistance against bacteria is reduced in some way.
The following increase your risk of developing marked plaque-associated gum disease:
* Poor oral hygiene when a lot of plaque and large numbers of bacteria build up.
* Smoking (which may alter your resistance to gum infection).
* If you have a poor immune system. For example, if you have an illness which makes your immune system less effective, or if you are on chemotherapy, etc.
* If you have diabetes.
