Taking good care of your oral health can definitely help with the longevity of your teeth. Many Americans lose their teeth due to natural aging or poor oral hygiene. However, older Americans are keeping their teeth longer and longer due to advancements in the dental field. One of the benefits of good oral hygiene is that you have some control over whether you lose your teeth. Below are the most common causes of tooth loss and how you can combat them.
Causes of Tooth Loss
Cavities: Cavities are areas of decay that end up becoming small holes in your teeth. Without proper treatment, the holes can cause further damage to your teeth beyond just a cavity. If left untreated, they can damage your enamel, the pulp in the center of your teeth, and may result in the need for a root canal. Combatting cavities comes down to your oral hygiene routine and ensuring that you regularly attend the dentist.
Gum Disease:
Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss for adults. This happens when bacteria accumulate on the surface of your teeth, causing inflammation in your gums. Gingivitis is the first phase of gum disease. Gingivitis is fairly common, as nearly half of all adults experience it.
However, with proper care, it is generally something that can be reversed. If gingivitis is left untreated, pockets between the tooth and gum can form and fill up with harmful bacteria. At this stage, the gingivitis has transformed into gum disease. It becomes almost impossible to eliminate the bacteria in your mouth after this has occurred, which can result in tooth loss.
As with cavities, the best way to prevent gum disease is to have a good oral hygiene routine and visit the dentist regularly. We provide the best periodontics Chino Hills has to offer. If gum disease has you worried, we can help.
Physical Injury:
Injuries can happen, and some can result in tooth loss. Whether its sports, outdoor activities, or even an accident, tooth loss can occur. The best way to protect yourself from physical injury is to wear a proper mouth guard when playing sports or doing any major physical activity that could result in trauma to your mouth.
Certain Diseases:
Some diseases can make you more susceptible to gum disease and tooth loss. For example, hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis are all diseases that can impact your oral health. To combat these risks, regularly visit the dentist and inform them of any other health factors that could impact your oral health.
Risk Factors:
Certain behaviors like smoking, chewing tobacco, and even poor diet and nutrition can impact the health of your teeth and gums. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, having a good oral hygiene routine, and attending the dentist regularly is important to ensure your teeth stay intact.
Proper Oral Care Routine
Taking good care of your oral health is vital for your teeth and gums and your overall health. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride to help protect against any future cavities. In addition to brushing, floss at least once a day.
Attending regular dental checkups every six months (or more if necessary) is vital to your oral health. It’s also important to watch your diet and focus on eating healthy, balanced meals. Limit sugary drinks, candy, pastries, coffee, and tea. These foods can mix with the harmful bacteria in your mouth and cause cavities and possibly gum disease.
Dentists in Chino Hills, California
If you have lost your teeth and want to find treatment options right for you, contact Dental Care of Chino Hills. They are experienced in various treatment options to get your smile back, including dental bridges and dental implants in Chino Hills. They use restorative and cosmetic dentistry based on whatever your dental needs are. Contact the office today for an appointment!