Did you know that 2.2% of adults (20-64 years old) suffer from complete edentulism or tooth loss? Although this oral health issue is highly prevalent, it’s preventable. Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices, making dietary and lifestyle changes, and seeing an endodontist in Mechanicsville can help you enjoy a lifetime of healthy and beautiful smiles.
How to Prevent Tooth Loss
Learn to Brush Properly
Brushing your teeth with ADA-approved fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day, flossing once daily, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can go a long way in keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
It’s also worth noting that using the correct brushing technique matters to your smile. Most people mistakenly believe that the power of their stroke is what cleans their teeth. However, dental health experts confirm that the brushing motions are what does the cleaning. Brushing too hard can cause damage to your tooth enamel and gums, causing tooth sensitivity and increasing your risk of tooth decay.
Check your toothbrush to see if you’re brushing too hard. If the bristles are splayed out, you’ll want to go easy on the brushing.
Eat a Tooth-Friendly Diet
Like other parts of the human body, your teeth and gums need the proper nutrition to stay healthy. Try incorporating carrots and celery into your regular diet. These foods are high in Vitamin A, an essential nutrient for gums and teeth. Since they’re also fiber-rich, they act as natural mouth cleaners.
Moreover, dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, are calcium-rich foods that help build strong teeth. In addition, they trigger your salivary glands to produce more saliva. Saliva washes away food debris, plaque, and bacteria that cause tooth decay, cavities, and bad breath.
Quit Smoking
Did you know that smoking tobacco products can increase your risk of gum disease? Smokers are more likely to produce bacterial plaque that leads to gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth loss. Since smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream, it prevents infected gums from healing. If you’re a regular smoker, do yourself a favor by kicking the habit before you lose your teeth.
Looking for an Endodontist in Mechanicsville?
At Commonwealth Endodontics, we go above and beyond to save your teeth. If you’re ready to receive quality endodontic care, contact us today to make an appointment.