Taking good care of your teeth can make a big difference in how long they last. Many people in the United States lose their teeth due to natural aging or poor oral hygiene. However, advances in dentistry allow older Americans to preserve their teeth for extended periods. One of the advantages of proper dental hygiene is that you can influence whether or not you lose your teeth. Below we have explained the most common causes of tooth loss, how to prevent it, and the tooth restoration options available at Preston Commons Dental Care.
Top Causes of Tooth Loss
Gum Disease:
For adults, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. Gum disease occurs when bacteria build up on the surface of your teeth, producing gum inflammation. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is relatively prevalent, affecting approximately half of all people. It is, however, generally something that can be rectified with care. Gingivitis can cause spaces between the tooth and gum to form and fill with dangerous germs if left untreated.
Gingivitis has progressed to gum disease at this point. After this happens, it’s nearly impossible to get rid of the germs in your mouth, which might lead to tooth loss. The best way to prevent gum disease is to have an outstanding oral hygiene routine and see Dr. Mosely regularly for cleanings and checkups.
Tooth Injury:
Accidents do happen, and some of them might result in tooth loss. Tooth loss can occur as a result of sports, outdoor activities, or even a car accident. When playing sports or undertaking any serious physical activity that could result in mouth trauma, the best approach to protect oneself from bodily injury is to wear a suitable mouthguard.
Health Choices:
Smoking, chewing tobacco, and even a poor diet and nutrition can harm the health of your teeth and gums. To keep your teeth healthy, you should live a healthy lifestyle, practice proper dental hygiene, and visit the dentist regularly.
Prevention:
Taking care of your teeth and gums, as well as your overall health, is critical. Brushing using a soft-bristled toothbrush for two minutes at least twice a day and using fluoridated tubes of toothpaste and mouthwashes will help prevent cavities. Floss at least once a day in addition to brushing.
Regular dental checkups every six months (or more frequently if necessary) are essential for good oral health. It’s also crucial to keep an eye on your diet and consume nutritious, well-balanced meals. Sugary drinks, chocolates, pastries, coffee, and tea should all be limited. These foods can combine with harmful bacteria in your mouth, leading to cavities and gum disease.
Tooth Restoration Options
If your tooth is missing or damaged and needs replacing, we offer state-of-the-art tooth replacement services that will have your smile appear brand new. Tooth restoration services include:
- Dental Implants: Using dental implants makes it possible to secure any tooth restoration into your mouth. A dental implant is a titanium screw placed into your jaw bone through surgery. Once established and healed, the implant can support a dental crown, dental bridge, or dentures.
- Dental Bridge: Replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth in a row is possible through a dental bridge. The bridge consists of 2 dental crowns on either side to support the replacement tooth in the middle. Crowns anchor the bridge onto already existing teeth for support. The crowns can also be attached to dental implants.
- Dentures: If you are missing most of your teeth or have very few healthy teeth left, a complete smile restoration like dentures will benefit you greatly. Dentures consist of a full smile of artificial teeth and gums that are created specifically for your mouth. Dentures rest on the gums or attach through dental implants.
At Preston Commons Dental Care, our primary goal is to help you maintain a healthy smile full of your natural teeth. Please let us help you avoid tooth loss! To schedule a cleaning and checkup or learn more about preventing tooth loss, give our office in Dallas, Texas, a call.
