Tooth loss is still a very big problem for many Americans. You may be surprised to hear that twenty -five percent of Americans over the age of sixty-five have lost all of their teeth. That is not good news, especially since Americans are living longer and longer these days. Practicing good oral hygiene such as daily flossing and brushing and visiting your dentist at least every six-months for a professional cleaning and check-up can go a long way in protecting the long-term health of your teeth. However, there are some common habits that you may have that are negatively affecting your dental health.
First and foremost, it is true what they say, sugar is bad for your teeth. Especially if it sits on the surface of teeth for long periods of time. Eating candies such as gummies and jellies that adhere to your teeth and bath your teeth with sugar can eat away at the tooth’s enamel and cause damage to the teeth. If possible, stay away from these candies altogether. If you do eat these types of foods, it is a good idea to brush your teeth afterwards so that the sugar does not sit on the surface of your teeth.
It is also important to pay attention to what you drink. Soda, whether it is sugar-free or not is highly acidic and can also eat away at the enamel on your teeth. Fruit juices with sugar added are just as bad. Alcohol such as wine is also acidic and can damage the enamel of your teeth. If you drink these types of beverages, it is a good idea to rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Smoking and chewing tobacco can wreak havoc on your dental health. It can yellow the teeth’s enamel and increases your risk for periodontal disease and oral cancer. Enough said!
If you play contact sports, you need to make sure that you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth. You can pick one up at a sporting goods store or have your dentist make a custom one to fit your mouth. Clenching and grinding your teeth can also cause significant damage to your dental health. If you grind your teeth at night, you may not even be aware of the fact that you are doing it. If this is this case, schedule an appointment with your dentist so he or she can fit you with a nighttime mouthguard.
If you have experienced tooth loss, do not lose hope. It is never too late to start practicing good habits to protect the long-term health of the rest of your teeth.
Fortunately, today there are many good options for patients with missing teeth. Pure Dental Health offers a variety of tooth replacement options including Dentca Dentures, dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures. Dr. Justin Scott can help you determine which solution best fits your needs as well as your lifestyle.
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