Introduction
Gum inflammation (gingivitis) is the most common disease within the oral cavity besides caries. The number one cause of gingivitis is a lack of oral hygiene. In addition, there are other causes that are favored by some risk factors.
These include hormonal and genetic factors, as well as systemic diseases and smoking. Furthermore, the psychological component also plays an important role, because stress in everyday life is also an aspect of gingivitis, even if the exact connection is not yet clear to researchers. The complexity of the causes makes it increasingly difficult to combat this widespread disease, as several risk factors are usually responsible in parallel for its extent. Particularly through the connection between gingivitis and periodontitis, the inflammation of the gums, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger cardiovascular diseases such as inflammation of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis) or even a heart attack (myocardial infarction). It is therefore important to be sensitized to these topics in order to take preventive measures for a healthy oral flora.
Causes
- Mechanical injuries
- Bacterial coatings
- Thermal damage
- Mushrooms
- Viruses
- Chemical substances
- Genetic factors
- Mouth breathing
- Low salivation
The following causes increase the risk of inflammation in general and are therefore also associated with an increased risk of gingivitis
- Systemic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Drugs, such as immunosuppressants
- Stress
Periodontosis
Parodontosis (medically correct term: periodontitis) describes an inflammation of the periodontium that affects the entire periodontium. If a simple inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) is ignored and not treated, the bacteria spread to larger parts of the oral cavity and periodontitis develops. Due to the inflammation, the periodontium can no longer firmly anchor the teeth, the bone is loosened and the teeth start to wobble.
Without therapy, the teeth can fall out in the worst case. Since bacteria play a role, periodontitis is a communicable disease and can be passed on, for example, by kissing. Researchers have also found out that the bacteria enter the bloodstream and can cause cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, prophylaxis and prevention is essential in order not to risk systemic and possibly life-threatening consequences for humans.