Tooth loss is a significant concern for a majority of adults in the United States. In fact, it is common enough that many people believe it is a natural part of the aging process, and that there is no way to prevent it. The truth, however, is that tooth loss is not natural. Your teeth were meant to be permanent, and for most patients, tooth loss results from conditions that could have been prevented or treated before tooth loss occurred. By keeping your teeth healthy with consistently good hygiene and a regular schedule of preventive dental care, it’s possible to prevent tooth loss by avoiding the issues that cause it.
Why Adults Lose Teeth
Tooth loss can occur for a variety of reasons. For instance, if you suffer from facial or oral trauma, the force of the trauma may be enough to knock a tooth out of its socket. If you have a tooth that is compromised by extreme tooth decay, or is too damaged to fix with a restoration, then it might also be lost. The most common cause of adult tooth loss, however, is severe gum disease, which erodes the periodontal tissues and jawbone that support the roots of your healthy teeth. In severe cases of gum disease, one or more teeth may be left without adequate support and can fall out or require extraction.
How to Preserve Your Natural Smile
With the exception of accidental trauma, tooth loss that results from dental health conditions like gum disease are highly preventable. Gum disease is the result of oral bacteria gathering excessively along your gum line, eventually infecting your gum tissues. By brushing and flossing at least twice every day and visiting your dentist routinely for checkups and cleanings, you can largely prevent the buildup of bacteria that leads to gum disease and increased risks of tooth loss. If gum disease develops, then you may still prevent tooth loss by seeking treatment as soon as possible to mitigate the damage to your gums.
Learn More About Preventing Tooth Loss
Tooth loss may be common, but it is also mostly preventable with regular dental care and maintenance from your dentist. To learn more, schedule your appointment by calling Keelan Dental in Butler, PA, today at (724) 285-4153. Our Smile Certified experts happily serve patients from Butler, Cranberry Township, Mars, Pittsburgh, Butler County, and all surrounding communities.