Causes:
Bacteria line your mouth and digestive tract. Some can eventually penetrate the gum line and dig deep pockets into the roots of your teeth -- to places where even careful brushing and flossing cannot reach. Although there is not one single factor that determines gum disease, there is no doubt that bacteria are a prime target of therapy. Bacteria are the symptoms of a larger problem, notably the failure of your immune system to defend your body against them. In that light, poor nutrition, stress, smoking, and alcohol consumption are all closely related to gum disease.
This disease is also related to a deficiency of vitamin C, bioflavonoids, calcium, folic acid, and/or niacin. People with disorders that attack the immune system, such as AIDS, are also more susceptible to gum disease. Heredity is also a factor. Hormonal imbalances during puberty and pregnancy often leave your immune system weakened and are related to gum disease. Oral contraceptives have also been linked to the disease.
Low levels of calcium intake during the young adult years, coupled with low dietary levels of vitamin C can double the risk of developing periodontal disease. These findings come from two studies recently reported at the 1998 meeting of the International Association for Dental Research. If you smoke, your level of calcium absorption is likely lower, still, as cigarettes interfere with the body's ability to assimilate vitamins and minerals.
