Other Important Factors Affecting the Health of Your Gums Physical and chemical irritants: Impacted food, tobacco products, alcohol and the improper use of dental floss and/or toothpicks may irritate the gum tissue. Abnormal oral conditions or habits Badly aligned teeth, poorly fitting bridges or partial dentures Defective fillings and harmful habits, such as grinding the teeth and chewing ice Unbalanced Diet Evidence shows a link between nutritional deficiency and the body's ability to fight infection Pregnancy Due to fluctuations in hormone levels, a temporary condition referred to as "pregnancy gingivitis" may occur. Certain medications Oral contraceptives, anti-epilepsy drugs, steroids and cancer therapy drugs may have a negative affect. Certain Diseases Diabetes, uremia, liver cirrhosis, anemia and leukemia are among the many diseases that may affect the health of your gums.