Tooth loss can impact your personal appearance, tooth alignment, confidence, and even your digestion. When you lose a tooth, chewing becomes harder, and smiling can feel awkward. However, there are many things you can do to prevent tooth loss. Knowing the risks and taking steps to maintain good dental hygiene is an important part of it.
1. Age
People who are older than 35 are at increased risk of losing a tooth. While nearly all adults should see the dentist twice per year, those who are older than 35 should make a special point of never missing an appointment with the dentist. Seeing the dentist regularly can help you catch problems in their early stages, and that can help save a tooth.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease puts your teeth at heightened risk. If you have gum disease, it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible. There are many things your dentist can do to treat gum disease, depending on the severity of the problem:
- Scaling and root planing. This is a form of deep cleaning that happens below the gumline.
- Antibiotics. Antibiotics can help kill the infection that is the root cause of gum disease.
- Surgical options. Pocket reduction surgery, bone grafting, and gum grafting are all methods your dentist can use to treat your gum disease.
Some of the signs that you have gum disease include puffy, swollen gums, gums that bleed during brushing, and bad breath that won’t go away (even after you brush your teeth). If you have the signs of gum disease, see your dentist for a diagnosis and a treatment plan.
3. Smoking
Smoking is bad for your oral hygiene in a variety of ways. Smoking causes dry mouth. Since saliva is responsible for cleaning your teeth, smoking can eventually lead to gum disease. Fortunately, this is entirely preventable. If you need help with smoking cessation, you can get support from organizations dedicated to this purpose, or you can speak to your doctor.
4. Diabetes
Like smoking, diabetes causes dry mouth and ultimately can lead to gum disease, which in turn can lead to tooth loss. Keeping your diabetes under control can help save your teeth. Work with your medical professional to keep your diabetes under control. Tell your dentist that you have diabetes. Your dentist may recommend coming for regular cleanings and appointments more often. If they do, follow your dentist’s advice to maintain clean, healthy teeth.
5. Neglecting Professional Dental Care
Preventative care is key to preventing your teeth from falling out. Mark your calendar twice a year to remind you to make your semi-annual dental appointments. When the time comes to make that appointment, don’t delay care! Seeing the dentist can help keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Make An Appointment Today
Naturally, the best way to care for your teeth is to see the dentist often and follow their tooth care advice. When was the last time you saw the dentist at Weninger Dentistry? Call us today to make an appointment and get your next dental visit scheduled.