The thing about most dental health issues is that they can seem inevitable. After all, tooth decay affects over 90% of adults at some point in their lives, and gum disease over 70%, despite the fact that many people know how to care for their smiles properly. Likewise, tooth loss affects over half of adults to varying degrees, which is why many patients in Syosset don’t realize that it’s possible to prevent losing teeth with the right care and maintenance.
Clean your teeth like they depend on it
Good hygiene is your most important defense against most types of dental health issues because harmful oral bacteria are the cause behind them. That includes gum disease, the main cause of tooth loss, and tooth decay, which can severely erode and weaken your healthy, natural tooth structure. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice and floss at least once every day, without fail, to effectively control the bacterial population in your mouth.
Talk to your dentist about your risks
Keeping your teeth and gums consistently clean is half the battle. The rest relies on visiting your dentist regularly and talking often about your most common dental health risks. By knowing what you’re most likely to lose teeth to (i.e., gum disease), you can take steps to better protect your oral health and preserve your natural teeth. That includes seeking treatment as soon as possible if signs of gum disease or any other issue develop.
Treat existing issues as soon as possible
When a dental concern does develop, it may not seem like tooth loss is imminent. However, not addressing it as soon as possible significantly raises the risks of it becoming severe enough to lead to tooth loss. If your dentist spots signs that you need additional dental treatment, then seek that treatment as soon as possible to control your overall risks of tooth loss.
Be Better at Preventing Tooth Loss
Preventing tooth loss is possible, but it takes consistent care and attention at home and at your dentist’s office. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling Syosset Dental in Syosset, NY today at 516-433-2211 or 516-921-1678.