What are the most common causes of gum disease?

Gum disease can be caused by a number of factors, but there's one underlying cause beneath most of these - plaque.

Smoking can exacerbate gum disease. Smoking produces bacterial plaque, which leads to gum disease. The gums are affected because smoking causes oxygen levels in the bloodstream to drop, so infected gums don't heal as quick as they otherwise would. Smokers may often find that they have more plaque and any gum disease worsens quickly.

Though it is now commonly agreed that vaping is safer than smoking, research into vaping is very much an ongoing thing. The propylene glycol contained in many e-liquids can cause your mouth to become very dry. The saliva in your mouth helps to protect against plaque and bacteria as one of your body's natural defence mechanisms, and with a dry mouth and absence of or low levels of saliva, plaque bacteria can multiply and cause infections below the gumline. If left untreated, the infection can turn into gingivitis or periodontal disease. (BDA, June 2022). Most sweet-tasting e-liquids from reputable sources and stores use artificial sweeteners rather than sugar. High sugar levels in cheap and often-imported disposable devices could however contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Breakdown of metallic elements from old or poor-quality vape coils can cause irritation to your gums and teeth, especially if you have metallic fillings or dental fixtures. Research is ongoing.

Prescription medications can sometimes create environments where plaque-forming bacteria spread quickly. If you are on a medication, please discuss this with our team at your appointment.

A diet high in sugar and lacking essential vitamins can be detrimental to your gum health.

Hormonal shifts, especially during pregnancy, can increase susceptibility to inflamed or bleeding gums. In most cases this will disappear after the pregnancy.

Let's have a look at the stages of gum disease below...