Gum Disease is not prejudiced. It can affect people of all ages, races and lifestyles. There are however some factors which will leave a person more vulnerable to this disease.

Obviously, proper dental care and hygiene are factors in whether or not an otherwise healthy person will develop periodontal disease. This is why we are so frequently reminded of the importance of regular brushing, flossing and dental visits. This will reduce the build up of plaque, which contains the bacteria responsible for gingivitis.

[However, this can't be enough for most people or there would not be such a high incidence of gum disease in the world today!]

This disease is caused by bacteria, bacteria create infection, and people with lowered immune systems are more susceptible to infection. This may be why people who suffer from illnesses which compromise their immune system such as cancer and AIDS to name a few, are more likely to have gum disease .

Yet, it is really a question of the chicken or the egg? The researchers are finding all of these links but they can not tell if the diseases feed off each other of if one causes the other.

Cigarette smoking is a contributor. It should not come as a surprise that cigarette smoke also promotes the production of plaque on the teeth.

Hormonal changes within the body and also genetics are factors in periodontal disease. This disease is also known to result in lower birth weight babies for pregnant mothers who are suffering with it. Next: Follow the links below to learn what you can do to stop gum disease and prevent it from coming back!