Why Do Some People Have Persistent Gum Infections?

Dealing with gum infections can be annoying. Imagine you want to enjoy the ocean at Pacific Beach, but you have to stay home to avoid making the infection worse. That can be irritating. Many people in San Diego face gum problems, even when they take good care of their dental health. This can be due to various issues, including the warm climate there. 

Whether you want to go surfing at Crystal Pier or enjoy fish tacos at a local restaurant, swollen and painful gums can ruin your day. It is important not to ignore these problems and understand the root cause to solve them. Genetics, health conditions, and medications can play a role, but a dentist can help you pinpoint the specific cause. 

Spending too much time in the water or under the sun can also affect your oral health. If you keep having gum problems even when you brush and floss properly, there might be a bigger underlying problem. Visit a family dentist in Pacific Beach, San Diego, to get personalized advice for your persistent gum infections.  

Why gum infections happen and what increases your risk 

Gum infections occur due to the presence of bacteria inside your mouth. These bacteria form plaque in your mouth, which is a soft layer you will find on the surface of your teeth. When you do not clean your teeth properly, this plaque hardens into tartar under your gums. Therefore, your gums become red, swollen, and infected. 

Over time, it can damage your gums and the bone that holds your teeth in place. Gum disease is very common, affecting almost half of all adults in the U.S. It’s also one of the main reasons people lose their teeth.

Some factors can increase your likelihood of getting gum infections. For example, not brushing and flossing your teeth is a big reason. However, besides that, there are other things, like changes in hormones, stress, and family history, that can also increase your chances.

How your lifestyle and environment affect your oral health 

Living in Pacific Beach has its own merits, but it can sometimes be tough on your oral health. The salt air and spending a lot of time outdoors can affect your mouth. While the sunny weather is great for outdoor fun, it also makes it easier for bacteria to grow, which can lead to gum infections. Moreover, being busy and missing dental appointments makes things worse. 

Your lifestyle choices also have a big impact on your gum health. Smoking, poor eating habits, and certain medications can increase your risk of gum disease. If you have health issues like diabetes, it can also make you more likely to get gum infections because your body’s ability to fight bacteria is weaker. 

How to prevent and treat gum infections 

The good news is that while gum infections are common, they can easily be treated with the right care. First of all, make sure you go for regular dental cleanings at your dentist, which are usually recommended every six months. These cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot reach.

Thanks to the advancements being made in the dentistry field every day, treating gum infections has become easier and more effective than ever. Certain treatments, such as teeth scaling and root planing, are specifically designed to remove bacteria from below the gumline. 

Some dental offices in Pacific Beach have advanced equipment and use lasers to reduce bacteria. They can also help you find the best course of action based on your dental goals, lifestyle, medical history, and other factors. 

Stop persistent gum infections today!

Are you tired of battling gum infections despite good dental care? If this is the case, do not wait for bacteria to cause any more damage than they already have. Visit a local family dentist today for effective treatment!