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Unfortunately, tooth loss affects millions of American adults each year, which is a blow to your confidence and self esteem. You may not feel comfortable talking and smiling in front of other people because of your missing tooth, and this can affect your performance at work. A missing tooth also affects your oral health and often leads to more tooth loss. Without a root to support your bone will deteriorate, and your healthy teeth will begin to shift into the open space. Your dentist in Medford discusses some of the common causes of tooth loss in American adults, and how these conditions can be avoided.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Without proper brushing and flossing each day, plaque begins to buildup on your teeth. This plaque contributes to conditions such as periodontal (gum) disease or tooth decay, which causes damage to your teeth called cavities. It takes brushing at least twice per day and flossing at least once per day to keep plaque buildup under control.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is actually the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults. It’s essentially an infection of the support system for your teeth, which is your jawbone and soft tissues. Gum disease can be tricky to diagnose on your own because there are not a lot of symptoms, or much pain associated with the condition until the later stages. Regular checkups and cleanings with your dental team are truly your best defense against gum disease.
Avoiding Recommended Dental Treatment
Being proactive about your oral health and getting the treatment you need can help prevent tooth loss. For example, if your dentist diagnoses a cavity that needs a dental filling, getting the treatment done as soon as possible protects your tooth from further damage. If your cavity goes untreated, the decay will progress and get worse.
Eventually, it will reach the pulp or nerve of your tooth and cause an infection, which then requires a root canal to preserve your tooth. If your infection is left untreated, not only will you experience significant pain, it will also lead to tooth loss.
If you have a tooth in need of repair, it’s important not to delay your treatment in order to maintain your oral health and prevent more damage from occurring.
Tooth Misalignment and Bruxism
When your teeth are crooked or overlap, they can be harder to keep clean, which puts you at an increased risk for gum disease and tooth decay. A misaligned bite also increases your risk for fractures and other damage to your teeth.
Tooth misalignment can also contribute to bruxism, or clenching and grinding your teeth at night. Bruxism causes excessive wear and breakdown of your teeth, and can often lead to tooth loss.
Dr. Gary Rosenfeld is your preventive dentist in Medford, and his team is well equipped to help you achieve optimum oral health and maintain your teeth for a lifetime. Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment.