Risk factors

Gingivitis is common, and anyone can develop it. Factors that can increase your risk of gingivitis include:

• Poor oral care habits
• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Older age
• Dry mouth
• Poor nutrition, including vitamin C deficiency
• Dental restorations that don't fit properly or crooked teeth that are difficult to clean
• Conditions that decrease immunity such as leukemia, HIV/AIDS or cancer treatment
• Certain drugs, such as phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek) for epileptic seizures, and some calcium channel blockers, used for angina, high blood pressure and other conditions
• Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, menstrual cycle or use of birth control pills
• Genetics
• Medical conditions such as certain viral and fungal infections