Taking care of your gums is vital for supporting overall oral health, and one condition that can affect them is pyorrhoea. This disease is categorised into aggressive and necrotising periodontitis. The former is common in young people and is defined by rapid and extensive gum recession and bone loss, which may cause tooth loss at an early age. The latter affects those with compromised immune systems and is accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, and infection.
To help you understand better what pyorrhoea is caused by, let’s have a clear understanding of this disease.
What are the Causes of Pyorrhoea?
Pyorrhoea is caused by the following factors:
- Poor oral hygiene practices: If you do not brush and floss regularly, it can lead to the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is a gummy film of bacteria on your teeth that can contribute to pyorrhoea development.
- Tobacco use: The risk of developing pyorrhoea is higher if you smoke or consume tobacco products. Nicotine constricts blood vessels; it limits oxygen and nutrients to the gums and fosters bacterial growth.
- Genetic factors: Some may be genetically vulnerable to gum diseases, including pyorrhoea. If your family has a history of gum issues, you may have a higher susceptibility.
- Systemic diseases: Health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular ailments are linked to an increased risk of pyorrhoea. These systemic issues compromise the body's ability to fight infections, impacting gum health.
- Hormonal changes: Women may experience increased vulnerability to gum diseases during hormonal fluctuations, such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Insufficient consumption of essential nutrients, especially vitamin C, can jeopardise the immune system, increasing the vulnerability to gum infections such as pyorrhoea.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as anti-hypertensives and antipsychotics, may contribute to a dry mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva helps protect the gums, and its deficiency can facilitate bacterial growth.
- Chronic stress: High stress levels can weaken the immune system and make it challenging for your body to combat infections, including those affecting the gums.