Many people believe that tooth loss is going to reach them eventually, if it hasn’t already. Given how common it is, it’s natural to believe this; however, it isn’t true. In most cases, tooth loss is the result of another underlying condition, and the most common causes of tooth loss are usually preventable (such as gum disease). If you want to avoid tooth loss, then it’s important to understand why it happens, what your unique risks for it are, and what steps you can take to start improving your oral health as soon as possible.
Revisit your dental hygiene habits
The first step to preventing tooth loss is to ensure that your teeth, gums, and other oral structures are healthy. The most common cause of tooth loss is gum disease, for example, and it begins when oral bacteria accumulate enough to overwhelm and infect your gums. You can largely prevent this by improving your hygiene and preventive dental care routines, such as:
Brushing and flossing – Good hygiene means more than brushing and flossing your teeth, but that’s it where it starts. Your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss are your main weapons against oral bacteria. If you don’t use them properly by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once, then bacteria can have the chance to cause problems that can later lead to tooth loss.
Checkups and cleanings – When you miss spots of bacteria buildup on your teeth, known as plaque, the film calcifies into tartar. Once it does, it becomes impervious to toothpaste and water, and you can’t remove the bacteria on your own. Regular checkups and cleanings are the only way to keep your teeth free of tartar, and therefore, prevent the gum disease and other issues that can arise from excessive oral bacteria.
If it’s been a while, schedule an appointment
If it’s been a while since you’ve last visited the dentist, then it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when it comes to protecting your oral health, and if given the time, the tartar that clings to your teeth and gum line can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and more.
Learn more about avoiding tooth loss
Avoiding tooth loss is possible if you take excellent care of your oral health on a consistent basis. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Creekside Family Dental Care in Columbia, TN, today at (931) 388–3384.