Common Causes of Gum Disease

Your gums are responsible for a large part of your overall oral health. So keeping them healthy and knowing how to detect gum disease is extremely important.

Since it’s often painless, gum disease may go unnoticed and can progress when left untreated. Understanding the causes of gum disease will give you the ability to keep your oral health in great shape:

  • Bacteria and Plaque. Good hygiene helps remove bacteria and plaque from teeth. When plaque is not removed, it turns into a rock-like substance called tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.
  • Smoking and Tobacco. Smokers and tobacco users put themselves at a higher risk of developing gum disease. Tobacco use can also stain your teeth, give you bad breath, and increase the risk of oral cancer. It’s best to avoid using tobacco altogether.
  • Certain Medications. Ironically, certain medications for other health conditions can increase your risk of developing gum disease. Talk with the doctor if you have concerns about a medication you are taking. Steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, certain cancer therapy medications, and oral contraceptives can be among the culprits.
  • Medical Conditions. Certain medical conditions can also affect your gum health. Diabetics can have an increased risk of gum disease due to the inflammatory chemicals in their bodies. Talk to our team about your health condition so we can take that into account when treating you.

Luckily, there are actions you can take to prevent gum disease. You should make regular visits to our Escanaba, Michigan office for regular cleanings. It’s also worthwhile to maintain good hygiene habits at home, such as flossing and brushing at least two times every day.

Good oral hygiene practice and visits to our Escanaba, Michigan office can help you eliminate or reduce the risks of developing gum disease!

Contact Us

Phone Number:
(906) 786-3936
Email Address: [email protected]

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

See What Patients Say About Us

    I would like to let you know that I am very pleased with the care that I have been receiving through the years to help me maintain my dental health. Dr. Eric, Dr. Beth and the dental hygienists have been doing an outstanding job of teamwork for my care. Thank you!

    Michael J. P..

    Dr. Beth is the best! She is skillful, compassionate and everything I was looking for in a dentist. Nothing but good results in this office. The whole staff, from reception to hygienists are friendly and care about their work💖

    Dee F.

    We drive 180 miles one way to go to Knudsen Dentistry because of the excellent service and consideration they give us!

    Tom and Joan B.

    Very gentle and they make you feel comfortable.

    Todd D. K.

    I totally agree with the other reviewers. Knudsen Dentistry rocks.

    Ray M.