Necrotizing periodontitis, also referred to as acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, can damage tissues, ligaments, and bones in the mouth. Necrotizing periodontitis is most common in smokers, malnourished people, or people with immune deficiency, such as HIV/AIDS.

Genetics play a vital role in determining the risk for periodontitis as it is believed that genetics could explain why some patients with good plaque control have advanced periodontitis, while some with poor oral hygiene are free from the gum diseases. Some people are naturally more susceptible to periodontal disease because of their heredity. If any of your relatives have had periodontal disease, you may be at increased risk.

Other factors that can lead to periodontal disease or more severe illness include:

Smoking

Smoking makes periodontal disease resistant to treatment, and the more you smoke, the higher the risk. Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of periodontal disease as tobacco leads to the acquisition of more tartar on the teeth, creates more pockets which can eventually leads to bone loss. By quitting the use of tobacco you can greatly decrease the chances of having periodontitis.

Misaligned or Crowded Teeth, Braces or Bridgework

These factors make brushing and flossing of teeth difficult. It can lead to aiding plaque and tartar formation around gingival (the gum) line, thereby increasing the chance of developing periodontal disease. There are special tools and ways of threading floss to clean around bridgework or slide under braces. If overcrowded or crooked teeth are a problem, consulting a dentist is highly recommended.

Teeth Clenching

Teeth clenching is the excessive force exerted on the teeth and tends to speed up the breakdown of the periodontal ligament and bone. Putting an end to the habit of teeth clenching is the only solution to decrease the risk of periodontitis. To do this start by taking note of periods when you clench your teeth then focus on relaxing.

Stress

Stress is another factor that can worsen periodontal diseases or even make its treatment complex. Stress weakens the body’s general immune system, which makes it harder for your body to fight off infections of any kind.

Diseases

Conditions or diseases such as diabetes, tend to be more frequent in people with periodontitis. Other conditions, such as leukemia, inflammatory bowel disease, and HIV infection, also can increase the risk. Any of the above mention diseases can make treatment of periodontal disease more difficult, but with the help of a dentist (a periodontist to be precise) gum disease is controllable.

Medications

Medications of different types can lead to xerostomia (dry mouth), including antidepressants, diuretics, and high blood pressure. Without the protection of adequate amounts of saliva, the plaque is more likely to form. Some of these medications include phenytoin (Dilantin and other brand names), used to control seizures; cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), used to suppress the immune system; and nifedipine (Adalat, Cardizem, and others) and other calcium channel blockers used to treat angina or heart arrhythmias.

Poor Nutrition

Poor diet is also a very vital factor in the development of periodontal diseases. Diet is essential for overall good health and a functioning immune system.