Tooth loss affects a large percentage of adults in America, but despite how common it is, it’s something that can often be avoided with improved hygiene and dental care. Even if you do experience tooth loss, you can avoid losing more by restoring your smile with a lifelike prosthesis. Today, we take a look at how you can improve your chances of avoiding tooth loss, or preventing the loss of more teeth if you’ve already experienced it.

1. Make Good Hygiene a Priority

Brushing and flossing your teeth are the cornerstones of keeping your smile healthy, but they’re only effective if you remain consistent. The most frequent causes of tooth loss are dental diseases (like gum disease) that begin with excessive oral bacteria buildup. By brushing and flossing away the plaque that forms on your teeth and gums every day, you can reduce your risks of such diseases, and therefore, your risks of losing one or more teeth.

2. Learn What Your Risks Are

Gum disease might be the most common cause of tooth loss, but it isn’t the only one. For instance, if your teeth are severely crooked, or if you’re genetically predisposed to have a high risk of tooth decay, then you may still be at risk of tooth loss. Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings, and consult with him to determine what your highest tooth loss risks are so that you can work together to protect your smile.

3. Replace a Lost Tooth Immediately

If you do lose a tooth, then your jawbone can grow weaker as a result of the lost tooth root. Over time, this can lead to heightened risks of further tooth loss due to the degradation of your jawbone. Replacing the lost tooth as soon as possible with a dental implant-supported restoration will restore the stimulation that helps keep your jawbone strong.

Learn More About How to Avoid Tooth Loss

Avoiding tooth loss doesn’t have to be complicated, especially with routine care and attention from your dentist.