Periodontal Health

Understanding Periodontal Health: How to Protect Your Gums

Maintaining healthy gums is essential for overall oral health. At Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, PC, we specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing periodontal disease to help patients in East Brunswick, NJ maintain strong and healthy smiles.

The Connection Between Periodontal Disease and Tobacco Use

Tobacco use is widely known to contribute to lung disease, cancer, and heart conditions, but many people are unaware of its impact on gum health. Studies have shown that smokers and tobacco users are at a significantly higher risk of developing severe periodontal disease compared to non-smokers.

How Does Tobacco Affect Periodontal Health?

Increases calculus buildup on teeth, leading to more plaque and tartar.
Causes deeper pockets between gums and teeth, making infections more severe.
Weakens bone and connective fibers, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Delays healing after periodontal treatments and reduces the success rate of dental implants.

Quitting tobacco can dramatically reduce your risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and even oral cancer. If you are a smoker, we encourage you to take proactive steps to protect your oral health.

Call us today at 732-257-7300 to schedule a periodontal evaluation.

Diabetes and Its Impact on Gum Health

Patients with diabetes—especially those with poorly controlled blood sugar levels—are more likely to develop periodontal infections. This creates a cycle where gum disease makes it harder to regulate insulin levels, leading to further complications.

How Does Diabetes Increase Periodontal Risks?

Higher susceptibility to infections due to reduced immune function.
Slower healing process, making it harder to recover from gum disease.
Greater difficulty in controlling blood sugar levels when periodontal disease is present.

Protecting Your Gums with Diabetes:

Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup.
Visit your dentist and periodontist regularly for professional cleanings and evaluations.
Maintain stable blood sugar levels to support gum and overall health.

If you have diabetes, it is essential to be proactive in maintaining strong and healthy gums. Our team is here to help you with specialized periodontal care tailored to diabetic patients.

Schedule an appointment today to protect your oral health.

How Hormonal Changes Affect Women’s Periodontal Health

Throughout a woman’s life, hormonal fluctuations can impact gum health, increasing the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Special attention to oral hygiene is necessary during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.

Puberty and Periodontal Sensitivity

During puberty, increased estrogen and progesterone levels can make gum tissue more sensitive to plaque and bacteria, leading to:

Red, swollen gums
Tenderness and irritation
Increased risk of gum infections

Pregnancy and Gum Inflammation

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause pregnancy gingivitis, which includes symptoms such as:

Swollen, bleeding gums
Redness and tenderness
Occasional non-cancerous gum growths (pregnancy tumors), which may require professional removal

Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help prevent these issues from worsening.

Menopause and Oral Health Changes

Menopausal and postmenopausal women may experience:

Burning sensation in the gum tissue
Dry mouth, leading to increased risk of cavities
Changes in taste (salty, peppery, or sour flavors)

To manage these symptoms, we recommend hydration, regular dental cleanings, and saliva substitutes if necessary.

If you're experiencing gum health issues related to hormonal changes, call us at 732-257-7300.

Why Periodontal Health Matters for Your Overall Well-Being

Healthy gums are not just about your smile—they play a crucial role in overall health. Research links periodontal disease to conditions such as:

Heart disease
Stroke
Diabetes complications
Respiratory infections
Pregnancy complications

By prioritizing gum health, you are also protecting your entire body from potential long-term health risks.

Comprehensive Periodontal Care in East Brunswick, NJ

At Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, PC, Dr. Daniel Reich and our experienced team offer advanced treatments to restore and maintain periodontal health, including:

LANAP Laser Gum Therapy (a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery)
Dental Implants for Missing Teeth
Gum Grafting & Crown Lengthening
Scaling & Root Planing
Bone Grafting & Sinus Augmentation

Our goal is to provide personalized, state-of-the-art periodontal care that helps you achieve optimal oral health.

Schedule Your Periodontal Evaluation Today

Whether you need treatment for gum disease, dental implants, or preventative periodontal care, we are here to help. Contact Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, PC today:

Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, PC

A-3 Cornwall Drive, East Brunswick, NJ 08816

Call:

732-257-7300