How can you prevent the number one cause of tooth loss? In case you don't know, periodontal disease leads millions of Americans to lose one or more teeth every year, according to the CDC. However, you can prevent this gum malady. At Lawrenceville Dental Implant Center and Periodontics in Lawrenceville, NJ, Dr. John Lu, Dr. Raúl Figueroa, and Dr. Kevin Murawski are the on-staff periodontists who show patients how to keep periodontitis away for good.

It's not rocket science...

But, it is good science. Oral bacteria destroys gum tissue. Hidden in plaque and tartar at and below the gum line, Strep germs infect gums, causing bad breath, loose teeth and ultimately, tooth loss.

The American Academy of Periodontology cites many other symptoms. While not all are obvious to you, they will be to your periodontist when he examines your mouth at Lawrenceville Dental Implant Center and Periodontics. Symptoms include:

• Gum tenderness, swelling and redness
• Changing dental bite
• Receding gum tissue
• Sores and abscesses on the gums
• Dark gum tissue
• Teeth which appear longer than they previously did
• Bleeding when you brush or eat
• Gum and dental sensitivity

Ignored or undetected, these symptoms escalate, causing tooth mobility, and impacting your overall health. For instance, the American Heart Association (AHA) cites research that indicates periodontal disease doubles a person's chances of having hardened arteries in the brain and a catastrophic stroke.

How to prevent gum disease

Your periodontists in Lawrenceville can show you ways to prevent gum disease. Strategies involve changes to your lifestyle and how to improve your oral hygiene habits.

Here's what you should do:

1. Limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
2. Increase the amount of fiber and fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet.
3. Stay well hydrated.
4. Stop smoking.
5. Brush your teeth and gums gently twice a day for two minutes (as advised by the American Dental Association, or ADA).
6. See your family dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and exam.
7. Reduce stress. Psychology Today reports that stress and anxiety harm your immune system and your ability to resist periodontal issues.
8. Take your risk seriously. If you're in your senior years or gum disease runs in your family, be extra vigilant.

We will support you

At Lawrenceville Dental Implant Center and Periodontics, Dr. John Lu, Dr. Raul Figueroa and Dr. Kevin Murawski encourage their patients in good gum habits. If you or your dentist are concerned about your periodontal health, please contact our office in Lawrenceville, NJ, for a helpful consultation and excellent care. Phone (609) 896-0700.