Is losing teeth a worry at the back of your mind? If you have older family members with a history of tooth loss, then it might seem like an especially worrisome prospect. While heredity might play a role in some of the issues that could lead to missing teeth, their actual loss doesn’t necessarily run in the family. In fact, to the surprise of many, you can prevent tooth loss if you understand what causes it, and take necessary measures to prevent those causes.
The Most Common Reasons for Tooth Loss
Ordinarily, your teeth and the structures that support them are exceptionally formidable. With crowns coated by super-resilient tooth enamel, and roots embedded in your jawbone, your permanent teeth are designed to withstand an incredible amount of pressure. However, when teeth are severely damaged or infected, or the structures that support them are diseased, you may lose one or more of them, or have to have them extracted. Among the most common reasons for tooth loss include (but are not limited to);
- Severe gum disease, which can destroy your gum tissues and underlying jawbone
- Severe tooth decay, which can consume your tooth and infect its root
- Extensively cracked, fractured, or broken tooth
- Teeth with cracked roots
- Sudden accidental impact
How Easy Is It to Prevent Tooth Loss?
Except in the case of accidental trauma, most reasons for tooth loss can be prevented by keeping your mouth clean and healthy. An effective dental hygiene routine includes brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day, in addition to regularly scheduled checkups and cleanings to make sure your routine is working. Even if a dental health issue develops, you can likely prevent tooth loss if you treat it before it becomes too severe.
ABOUT YOUR NORTH RICHLAND HILLS DENTIST:
With over 25 years of professional experience, Dr. Steven M. Huffstutler and his caring team proudly provide exceptional preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatment to patients and their families across Dallas/Ft. Worth, including North Richland Hills, Denton, the Mid-cities, Southlake, and all surrounding communities. We also have extensive experience helping patients find relief from painful TMJ disorders (various forms of jaw dysfunction). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Huffstutler, contact our office today by calling 817-918-3038.