Did you know that a staggering number of people (an estimated 70 percent of the adult population in the U.S.) will lose at least one tooth over the course of a lifetime? That’s an alarming statistic, right? Today we want to look at why this is happening, and more importantly, what you can do to prevent such a fate. Please keep reading to see some of the contributing factors for adult tooth loss, and then be sure to call us at 540-253-1377 to schedule your next appointment with the dental team in Warrenton, VA you can trust for both preventive and restorative dental solutions.
Poor Oral Hygiene
The fact of the matter is that when you don’t keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine, you will experience a buildup of plaque, which is the sticky white film made of bacteria that lives in everyone’s mouths. This situation can lead to tooth decay and gum disease that can result in a complete loss of your teeth. It is not worth taking any chances. Find a good toothbrush and toothpaste, some dental floss and mouthwash. Then get in the groove and stay there!
Cavities
We want to see you in one of our chairs every 3-6 months. Here’s one good reason why: tooth decay that goes untreated or undetected for too long is a cause of tooth loss. While it is true that you can still end up with cavities even when you are taking good care of your teeth, brushing and flossing diligently will increase your protective factors.
Periodontal Disease
Just like cavities, gum disease (which starts out as gingivitis and ends up as periodontal disease) is caused by oral bacteria. That bacteria is present in your mouth before you ever even have teeth. And whenever that bacteria gets below your gum-line it starts to cause inflammation, infection, and eventual weakening of your gums.
The gums start to recede, showing more and more of the roots of your teeth until they start to lose stability. The loss of stability as a result of untreated gum disease will get worse and worse until your gums and bone can’t support your teeth anymore.
Many gum disease patients lose multiple teeth rather quickly as the infection spreads from one tooth to another. Don’t let it come to that. Besides, gum disease can also lead to bigger problems elsewhere in your body. It has been linked to all sorts of health issues.
Accidental Dental Damage
This is something that can happen to anyone. A car crash, sports injury, or just a slip-and-fall injury at the pool can happen without much warning. Teeth are lost from that kind of trauma all the time!
In many instances a damaged tooth can be saved with a crown or other restoration, but that isn’t always the case. Sometimes there’s nothing that can be done. But we will set you up with a great replacement plan if that is the situation you are confronting.
Dental Anxiety & Fear Of The Dentist
This self-imposed obstacle is something we can work on together because it won’t be good for the health of your smile if you avoid or put off seeing the dentist. Periodic exams and professional cleanings are essential for eradicating food particles, dangerous bacteria, etc.
During those checkup appointments we are able to catch problems like cavities far earlier than you can spot them on your own. The same applies for gum disease (which is the #1 cause of tooth loss in adults).
We are here for you and your smile, but we can’t do much good if you never come around to see us. Don’t worry about your feelings of uneasiness. We are a gentle dental care team and we are certified to administer sedation dentistry that is designed to make your experience pleasant and painless.
Call Our Tooth Preservation Specialists Today!
It’s never too late to boost the health and appearance of your smile. We hope you have been inspired to call Drs. Yung & Jelinek today at 540-253-1377 or fill out our online form to schedule an adult tooth loss consultation in Warrenton, VA.