Preventing Gum Disease

How to Prevent Gum Disease and Maintain a Healthy Smile

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults over 35. In fact, three out of four adults will experience some form of periodontal disease in their lifetime. At Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, PC, we are committed to helping patients in East Brunswick, NJ prevent gum disease through proper oral hygiene, professional cleanings, and advanced periodontal care.

Understanding Gum Disease: Causes and Risk Factors

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a progressive condition that starts with gingivitis and can advance to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.

Common Causes of Gum Disease:

Poor oral hygiene, leading to plaque and tartar buildup
Tobacco use, which increases inflammation and slows healing
Diabetes, which weakens the immune system and increases infection risk
Chronic stress, which affects the body’s ability to fight infections
Clenching and grinding teeth, causing excessive pressure on gums
Certain medications that reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth
Poor nutrition, which weakens the immune response and slows healing

Being aware of these risk factors can help you take proactive steps to prevent gum disease and maintain optimal oral health.

Daily Habits to Prevent Gum Disease

Even with diligent at-home care, some people are still prone to developing periodontal disease. The key to prevention is consistency and professional intervention when needed.

1. Brush and Floss Daily

Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss at least once daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth.
Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in hard-to-reach areas.

2. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Professional dental cleanings remove tartar buildup that at-home brushing cannot.
Routine periodontal evaluations can help detect gum disease before it becomes severe.
Visiting a periodontist ensures that early-stage gum disease is managed properly.

3. Maintain a Balanced Diet

Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin C to support gum and bone health.
Limit sugary foods and acidic beverages, which contribute to plaque buildup.
Stay hydrated to maintain saliva production, which naturally protects teeth and gums.

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

The Importance of Professional Periodontal Care

If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including:

Receding gums that expose tooth roots and increase sensitivity
Bone loss, which weakens the foundation of your teeth
Increased risk of tooth loss, requiring dental implants or dentures
Systemic health issues, including links to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke

At Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, PC, we offer advanced periodontal treatments to manage and reverse gum disease, including:

Scaling & Root Planing – A deep cleaning treatment to remove bacteria below the gumline.
Laser Periodontal Therapy (LANAP) – A minimally invasive treatment to eliminate infection and promote gum regeneration.
Gum Grafting – A procedure to restore lost gum tissue and prevent further recession.
Dental Implants – A permanent solution for missing teeth due to periodontal disease.

Our goal is to provide personalized, conservative treatment plans to restore and maintain your oral health.

Protect Your Gums and Oral Health for a Lifetime

Taking care of your gums is just as important as caring for your teeth. By following a strong oral hygiene routine, managing risk factors, and scheduling regular checkups, you can protect your gum health and overall well-being.

Ready to take control of your gum health? Contact us today to schedule your periodontal evaluation!

Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, PC

A-3 Cornwall Drive, East Brunswick, NJ 08816

Call:

732-257-7300