How to Prevent Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is normally associated with aging. Aging, however, is not the only cause of tooth loss. People of all ages can lose teeth through disease, or through trauma, such as a sports injury. Most of the food we eat is processed, and contains sugar, which together with carbohydrates, are the biggest causes of tooth decay. Tooth decay leads to gum disease, which leads to tooth loss.
The principal causes of tooth decay and gum disease are:
- Tobacco: Tobacco affects the supply of blood to the gums, and increases the risk of gum disease
- Chronic illness: People who suffer from a chronic illness, like diabetes, are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease. Diabetes compromises the immune system, which makes the body less able to fight gum disease.
- Improper Dental Care-Incorrect and irregular brushing and flossing, results in the build-up of plaque in your mouth. Plaque is a thin, sticky, bacteria-laden film that coats your teeth and gums continually. When plaque is not removed, it calcifies into tartar. The harmful bacteria in plaque and tartar attack the teeth and gums, eventually causing tooth loss.
- Diet: It is imperative that you limit the amount of food you eat containing elements that are harmful for teeth and gums, such as sugar and carbohydrates. Sugar and carbohydrates form acids which attack the tooth enamel, and eventually lead to cavities and tooth decay.
- Structural Issues: If your teeth are misaligned, they are more difficult to clean, and therefore more prone to tooth decay and gum disease. This condition should be corrected early in life, when it is easier to undergo orthodontic treatment.
Early Signs of Gum Disease
- Red and swollen gums
- Persistent pain
- Bleeding gums when brushing teeth
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth and bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Gum infections
- Receding gums
- Deep pockets forming between teeth and gums
All or any of these symptoms are not necessarily indicative of gum disease; however, it would be advisable to consult your experienced Surrey dentist as soon as possible, if you display any of them.
Preventing Tooth Decay, Gum Disease and hence Tooth Loss
- Stop smoking, or at the very least, try and cut down.
- Manage your chronic illness correctly, and try and enhance your immune system as much as you can.
- Brush and floss regularly, at least twice a day, and visit your dentist regularly, at least every 6 months. Teach your children correct dental care as young as possible.
- It is essential to make sure that you eat foods that contain sufficient quantities of the minerals and vitamins essential for the fight against tooth decay and gum disease. Be sure to get sufficient vitamin C to boost your immune system; and a regular supply of calcium to help strengthen your teeth against decay. Fluoride has been found to strengthen the teeth against attack. If you don’t live in an area that has fluoride in the water, make sure that you use toothpaste that contains fluoride.
- If you or your children have misaligned teeth, or other structural issues; you should seriously consider orthodontic treatment to correct the problem.
Tooth loss can be prevented, or at least slowed, by following the tips listed above. Regular visits to your dentist are also essential to monitor the health of your teeth, and prevent tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss.
