6 ways to avoid tooth loss

As dentists and dental hygienists, we’re passionate about avoiding tooth loss…to state the obvious. Sadly, losing teeth is something many adults may have to deal with in their lives, however, we at Sea Street Dental, do everything we can to make sure your teeth stay in your mouth. So how can you prevent tooth loss?

1. Protect yourself from gum disease

Gum disease is one the leading causes of tooth loss in the UK. It is caused by plaque build-up, which weakens the hard and soft structures that support the tooth. Gum disease can be avoided by brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and cutting out habits that can encourage plaque build-up, like smoking or consuming excess sugary food and drink.  

2. Avoid smoking

Smokers are two times more likely to suffer tooth loss than non-smokers. The chemicals and nicotine not only stain your teeth but also lead to gum disease, which in turn can lead to tooth loss. 

3. Adopt a healthy diet

It is well known that a diet of sugary food and drink affects the health of your teeth. To avoid decay, cavities, and tooth loss, eat low sugar, calcium rich foods. When you treat yourself to a piece of cake or a couple of cocktails, try to enjoy them during mealtimes, then drink a glass of water or chew sugar-free gum to help neutralise the mouth and encourage saliva production. 

4. Visit us regularly 

We don’t just tell you to come in every six months because we like having a chat with you. Although we do like chatting to our lovely patients, but we’re also passionate about having regular check-ups and hygiene appointments. Our hygienists assess your oral hygiene, professionally clean hardened tartar and can spot the early signs of gum disease, often before you’ve noticed it yourself. Regular appointments can nip issues in the bud, making sure your teeth are in the best condition they can be.  

5. Protect your teeth from trauma

Even if you have the best oral hygiene, your diet is healthy and you avoid smoking, you could still be at risk of tooth loss due to trauma at any age. Precautions should be taken to avoid unexpected incidents. Always wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports, avoid chewing on ice, boiled sweets and ends of pens and pencils etc. Although these may not completely prevent you losing a tooth, it will surely minimise the chances. 

6. Avoid wear from grinding teeth 

Bruxism or grinding teeth is often a habit that occurs without your knowledge. Although it often happens when you sleep, you may notice the signs with symptoms such as headaches, jaw pain and worn teeth. If left, this can weaken your enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to decay. Book an appointment with us to get a mouthguard fitted, which can be worn to prevent further damage to your teeth.