Risk factors

Factors that can increase your risk of periodontitis include:

• Gingivitis
• Poor oral health habits
• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy or menopause
• Recreational drug use, such as smoking marijuana or vaping
• Obesity
• Inadequate nutrition, including vitamin C deficiency
• Genetics
• Certain medications that cause dry mouth or gum changes
• Conditions that cause decreased immunity, such as leukemia, HIV/AIDS and cancer treatment
• Certain diseases, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease