Periodontal Disease Risks
Several risk factors can increase a patient’s chance of developing periodontal disease. First, poor oral hygiene can contribute to the occurrence of periodontal disease, as well as tobacco use.
Patients who have diabetes or other systemic diseases may be at a higher risk for gum disease, as well as those who are on specific types of medications, such as oral contraceptives, steroids, and cancer therapy drugs.
Patients who are pregnant and experiencing a drastic change in their hormones may also notice an increase in inflammation and bleeding which signals that periodontal disease is forming.