Steps You Can Take to Reduce Your Risk of Tooth Loss

Millions of Americans suffer from missing teeth and associated complications. As your dentist near Peoria can attest, in addition to natural teeth, dental crowns and bridges can also be lost. Adult teeth can fall out for many reasons. Many people lose teeth due to accident or injury, periodontal disease, or severe decay. Keep reading to learn what you can do to reduce your risk of tooth loss, including keeping up with oral hygiene, mouth protection, and dental visits.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

While dental implants now offer permanent solutions for missing teeth, the best way to preserve your oral health is to keep all-natural teeth intact. To maintain superior oral hygiene, brush your teeth twice each day with fluoride toothpaste. You should also floss every night before bed with an ADA-approved dental floss. Brushing and flossing your teeth is essential for removing plaque, a sticky bacterial film that accumulates on your teeth and gums. If you do not eliminate plaque, it can eventually cause periodontal disease and tooth decay, both of which contribute to tooth loss.

Consider Mouth Protection

To preserve your smile, always wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports. A mouthguard will help protect your tooth enamel or the outermost covering of your teeth. When your tooth enamel is worn down, it cannot grow back on its own and your teeth will be more vulnerable to decay. Many people also suffer chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth due to sports injuries. A mouthguard will help to protect your teeth and soft mouth tissues from injury.

Attend Regular Dental Visits

Regular check-ups with a dentist near you are essential to keeping your smile whole. Only a dentist or dental hygienist can use the necessary tools to professionally clean your teeth, reaching spots that your toothbrush cannot quite access. Plaque and tartar buildup will cause tooth decay and periodontal disease if not treated by a dentist. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss around the world. When you visit your dentist, he or she can diagnose gum disease in its early stages and reverse its symptoms.