To prevent periodontitis, attention must be paid to reducing individual risk factors.
Behavioral risk factors
- Diet
- Malnutrition – low energy and low protein (low protein) diet.
- Micronutrient deficiency (vital substances) – see prevention with micronutrients.
- Consumption of stimulants
- Tobacco (smoking)
- Drug use
- Amphetamines (indirect sympathomimetic): ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine, MDMA), crystal meth (methamphetamine) or methylphenidate.
- Cannabis (hashish and marijuana) – association with number of “joints” smoked and cannabis dependence.
- Psycho-social situation
- Emotional stress
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- Overweight (BMI ≥ 25; obesity)
Medication
- Ciclosporin (cyclosporin A) – drug for immunosuppression.
- Hormonal contraceptives – hormonal drugs for contraception.
- Hydantoin derivatives such as dantrolene (muscle relaxants), phenytoin (antiepileptic drugs).
- Dihydropyridine (calcium channel blocker/calcium antagonist; blood pressure medication).
- Nifedipine (dihydropyridine-type calcium antagonist).
Environmental exposure – intoxications (poisonings).
- Heavy metal poisoning (including lead).
Other risk factors
- Pregnancy
