What is a common risk factor for developing periodontitis?

Smoking or tobacco use is recognized as a significant risk factor for developing periodontitis due to its negative impact on oral health and the immune response. Tobacco use can impair blood circulation in the gums, reducing the body’s ability to heal and fight off infection. It also alters the microbiome of the oral cavity, promoting the proliferation of harmful bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease. Additionally, nicotine can lead to increased plaque formation and tartar buildup, further exacerbating periodontal inflammation and disease progression.

While lack of fluoride exposure, excessive brushing, and high sugar intake might have roles in overall dental health, they are not as directly linked to the onset or progression of periodontitis as smoking. Fluoride primarily helps in caries prevention, excessive brushing can lead to abrasion but does not directly cause periodontitis, and while high sugar intake is associated with caries, it does not have the same established connection to periodontal disease as smoking does.