Therein lies one of the most common misconceptions about dentistry and oral health—that oral hygiene is important only for those who have teeth. Even if you lose only a single tooth, diligent care is needed to protect your remaining teeth. Gums, too, require care to maintain optimal oral health. Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, a provider of full and partial dentures in Astoria, NY, discusses the importance of hygiene and dental visits for patients missing several or all of their teeth.
Leading Causes of Tooth Loss
Contrary to popular belief, adult tooth loss is not a natural part of the aging process. Tooth enamel, the hardest natural substance in the human body, lasts a lifetime when cared for properly. And although some degree of gingival recession is to be expected over time, gums that recede significantly are a symptom of periodontal disease, the most common cause of tooth loss among adults in America. Tooth decay, injuries, and complications of oral cancer treatment also cause result in loss of permanent teeth. Dr. Leibowitz notes that for each of these causes, there are actions you can take to mitigate the risk of tooth loss:
- Follow recommend oral hygiene guidelines: The American Dental Association advises brushing your teeth a minimum of twice daily using a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles. Floss at least once daily before brushing, as this allows fluoride from your toothpaste to reach the areas between your teeth. Use a fluoride rinse or antimicrobial mouthwash for added protection against tooth decay and bad breath.
- Visit your dentist at least once every six months: During your routine dental exam, Dr. Leibowitz will screen you for oral cancer and periodontal disease. Early detection of oral cancer is vital to treatment outcomes and survival rate, and gum disease is reversible in its earliest stage (gingivitis).
- Seek timely treatment for oral health problems: If you detect symptoms of oral infections or gum disease, or if you experience toothaches, mouth sores, or jaw pain, timely treatment is crucial. Not all conditions improve with time. Indeed, they may lead to the spread of infection and cause significant damages to your teeth, gums, and jaw.
Missing Teeth and Quality of Life
The adverse effects of living with missing teeth range from concerns about appearance to problems with the jaw and remaining teeth. Patients often ask whether they should delay tooth restoration until a later date, especially after losing only a single tooth. Bad idea, says Dr. Leibowitz. Chewing, speaking, and biting subjects your teeth to substantial force. In the absence of one or more teeth, your remaining teeth must absorb a greater portion of this force, often unequally distributed. The enamel and underlying structure of the teeth is compromised, and you are more likely to experienced fractures, cracks, chips, and disorders of the temporomandibular joints, or TMJs.
Damage Control After Tooth Loss
Although Dr. Leibowitz recommends seeking tooth restoration as quickly as possible, the reality is that you may not be able to do so immediately. Until then, you can take action to prevent further damage. Continue brushing and flossing as directed, taking care to gently clean the gum tissue in the area of the missing tooth. Some patients with missing teeth find that flossing with broad, flat dental tape is more comfortable than using regular dental floss that consists of several nylon strands. If you notice that your teeth have shifted since losing your tooth, devote extra time to cleaning between these teeth and around the gum line. Teeth that overlap slightly as a result of shifting are more likely to trap food and bacteria, resulting in formation of plaque and tartar and increasing the risk of developing gingivitis. By maintaining your oral health following tooth loss, you can improve the treatment outcome for dental implants, bridges, and dentures.
Are you a candidate for teeth replacement in Astoria, NY? To learn more about teeth replacement, or to schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, contact us at 718-728-8320. Dr. Leibowitz, a native of Queens and graduate of SUNY Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, offers general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to residents of Astoria, upstate New York, NYC, and New Jersey.
