People have the misconception that tooth loss is inevitable as they age. While it is perfectly normal to lose milk teeth, losing adult teeth is not. Tooth loss is far from inevitable. While time and age can cause deterioration of oral health, it is not age that causes tooth loss and other problems. Learn ways to protect your teeth for life.
Major Causes of Tooth Loss
.Periodontal disease
The most common cause of tooth loss in the aging generation is not aging, but periodontal disease, which gradually erodes the supporting tissues in the mouth and often leads to tooth loss. The likelihood of periodontal disease increases as you get older, as both plaque and tartar build up over time and oral hygiene can become more difficult as you age. If you are not affected by severe periodontal disease, you may only need a few tips, such as using an electric toothbrush, to facilitate daily brushing. However, regular treatment and care with your dentist is very important if you currently have periodontal disease.
Periodontal or gum disease is an inflammation of the gums and the bone support (periodontal tissues) surrounding the teeth. The two most common periodontal diseases are:
-Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums: The initial stage of gum disease is characterized by redness of the gums, swelling, and bleeding while brushing. Acute gingivitis is often associated with certain infections, microorganisms, or trauma. Chronic inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth, teeth and teeth Gingivitis was once viewed as the first stage of a chronic degenerative process that results in the loss of both the gum and the bone tissue surrounding the teeth. It is now recognized that gingivitis can be reversed with effective personal oral hygiene practices.
How do you prevent gingivitis? The solution is to remove the bacterial plaque around the teeth and gums with a toothbrush and dental floss. Brushing and flossing should be part of your daily routine, regardless of your age.
-Periodontitis (inflammation affecting the bones and tissues of the teeth): When gum disease affects the bone and supporting tissue, it is called periodontitis and is characterized by the formation of pockets or spaces between the tooth and the gum. This can cause chronic periodontal destruction leading to loosening or loss of teeth. One of the difficulties in the early diagnosis of periodontal disease is that it does not cause pain and can progress undetected. In its early stages, gingival bleeding during tooth brushing may be the only finding; As the disease progresses and the gums worsen, the bleeding may stop and there may be no obvious symptoms until the teeth are loose. In most cases, periodontal disease responds to treatment and its progression can be stopped with dental treatment, although destruction is largely irreversible.
The rate of progression varies, and research has shown a correlation with other factors such as those with compromised immune systems, diabetes, HIV infection, leukemia, and down syndrome.
Regular Dental Appointments Are Very Important!
Patients needing gum disease treatment and periodontal care are recommended to visit more than twice a year, depending on your exact condition. After periodontal disease occurs, more frequent care is required to prevent disease progression. Regular dental care has a profound effect on how likely you are to keep your teeth. Chewing your food at any age is unattractive unless you are a baby. Chewing on a fresh, crunchy salad or a medium steak is one of life’s simple pleasures. Do your best to maintain your ability to have healthy teeth and gums throughout your life.
Factors Affecting Periodontal Disease
Smoking and diabetes are risk factors for periodontal disease. Diet and stress have also been linked to periodontal health. This may be because individuals under stress are less likely to practice good oral hygiene on a regular basis. Most people can effectively avoid gum disease by removing plaque from your teeth daily and having regular checkups.
Proper Nutrition
Good nutrition is emphasized over and over, but did you know that not getting the proper vitamins and minerals, among all other health problems, can lead to tooth loss? A calcium-deficient diet can increase your risk of tooth loss, and you may unknowingly damage your teeth and gums if you eat too many sugar, acid, or carbohydrate-rich foods. A lack of proper nutrients can adversely affect the mouth, teeth, and gums, leading to increased gum disease and other oral health-related problems.
Unhealthy Habits
Statistics show that smokers experience twice as many tooth loss as non-smokers. Other bad habits like drinking alcohol, opening packages with your teeth, chewing ice and hard candy can weaken or break your teeth at any age, but the risk factors increase as you get older.
The best thing you can do to maintain a healthy smile for years to come is to brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, and visit your dentist as often as your dentist recommends for your individual situation.
