Oral health challenges are a natural part of aging, but with the proper care, tooth loss doesn’t need to be one of them. Discover the steps today to prevent tooth loss as you age.
Nov 20th, 2023
Everyone experiences changes in their health as they age, and many are natural and unavoidable. As you age, the body’s ability to heal slows while bone and gum tissue weaken and thins.
The everyday process of biting and chewing food wears down your tooth enamel over the years. That increases your risk of developing cavities or even cracking a tooth as you age.
Despite these challenges to your dental health, you can prevent tooth loss. Our cosmetic and restorative dental professionals at Nobel Dentistry in the Koreatown neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, are experts in keeping your teeth in prime condition.
Oral conditions that lead to tooth loss
These two conditions increase the risk of tooth loss:
Dry mouth
Dry mouth is a lack of saliva caused by certain medications or health conditions. A dry mouth increases bacteria without treatment, leading to cavities and gum disease. These, in turn, put you at greater risk of tooth loss.
Gum disease
Receding gums are most common in adults over 65 due to the gum tissue naturally thinning over time. Receding gum tissue allows bacteria and tartar to build up in the spaces left behind, resulting in periodontitis.
The reverse is also true: Bacterial overgrowth from untreated gum disease can cause previously normal gums to recede, weakening teeth.
Methods to prevent tooth loss
Fortunately, these conditions that lead to tooth loss can be prevented or treated. Here are some proven methods to keep your teeth strong and healthy throughout your life.
Make dental hygiene a priority.
A solid foundation of brushing and flossing twice daily is crucial to maintaining your teeth at any age. It’s important not to get complacent with your brushing routine, ensuring you clean as thoroughly as possible.
Visit the dentist regularly.
Even with the best personal brushing and flossing routine, dental cleanings every six months remain essential. Our specialists remove plaque and tartar buildup using professional dental tools and techniques that can’t be replicated at home.
When you visit us for regular checkups, we can find and treat any problems, such as cavities or receding gums, before they put you at risk for tooth loss.
Prevent dry mouth
Staying well-hydrated may relieve your dry mouth symptoms, depending on severity. Special rinses and mouth hydrators are also available if you experience a persistent lack of saliva.
Our specialists can help you determine the best course of action for your dry mouth when you come in for a checkup. We may adjust existing medications or recommend new ones to protect against tooth decay and increase saliva production.
Follow a healthy diet
A healthy, balanced dietary regime positively affects all areas of your health, including dental health. On the other hand, too much sugar and acidity in the form of soda, candy, fruit juices, and sports drinks erode tooth enamel and cause even more significant dental challenges.
Start preventing tooth loss today
It’s not difficult to prevent tooth loss as you age, as long as you’re diligent and have the support to help you succeed.
Booking a dental exam is the most important step to maintaining a healthy, youthful smile. Go online to request an appointment at Nobel Dentistry in Koreatown, or call us to schedule your next visit.