Easy ways to prevent disease, decay, and tooth loss
Losing your teeth as a child is a fun experience. As an adult, not so much. Your adult, permanent teeth are intended to last a lifetime, but without taking proper care of the smile, you may be putting yourself at risk of tooth loss. At Ablantis Dental, Dr. Claudia B. Cortadi works routinely with patients who need to improve their oral health to reduce the chances of losing permanent teeth in the future. Encinitas, CA area patients interested in quality care from a comprehensive dentist are welcome to book an appointment with our team to discuss the risks of tooth loss and how to address the problem if it occurs.
What causes tooth loss?
There are many different causes of tooth loss, but the most common is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is an infection that starts in the soft tissues of the mouth. This infection, caused by bacteria, can spread not only throughout the mouth but also through the body via the oral-systemic connection. When gum disease is left untreated, it causes shrinking of the jaw bone, which in turn results in loose or lost teeth. This is irreversible damage that needs the attention of a dentist right away.
How to prevent tooth loss from gum disease and decay
- Brush your teeth the proper way. Did you know there is a correct way to brush your teeth? Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and move across the upper and lower teeth in a circular motion. Use a back and forth motion to clean the teeth near the back of the mouth and the chewing surfaces. Use a tongue scraper as well, especially if you are susceptible to halitosis (bad breath).
- Floss at least once a day. Flossing at least once a day helps remove food particles that become trapped between the teeth. It can also remove bacteria that are caught in hard-to-reach areas between the teeth and along the gumline.
- Use the right products and instruments. Make sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush, as a stiffer brush can cause irritation and bleeding of the gums. If the toothbrush is frayed or if you have recently had an illness, change your toothbrush. Also, change your toothbrush every three months. You may also want to ask the dentist about using a water flosser or even an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning of the teeth and gums.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year. The American Dental Association, or ADA, recommends patients visit their dentist every six months. During these appointments, patients undergo a thorough cleaning known as prophylaxis by a dental hygienist and an examination by the dentist herself. In some instances, imaging may be done, including dental x-rays, to evaluate the smile’s health past what the eyes can see.
- Notify your dentist of any problems as soon as possible. Even when you visit the dentist every six months, problems may still arise between appointments. Any time you have a pain, ache, trauma, or injury to the mouth or notice any unusual changes in your smile, it is a good idea to contact Ablantis Dental for an additional visit to determine the cause of the issue and seek immediate treatment whenever possible.
Work with a dentist in Encinitas to protect your smile
If you are worried about your oral health and wellness and live in the Encinitas, CA area, Dr. Claudia B. Cortadi can help. Call the office at (760) 334-0128 to request an appointment and learn more about preventative dentistry. The office is located at 351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite #110, and accepts new patients.
