A brilliant smile is something we all wish to flaunt, but keeping those pearly whites intact isn’t always a walk in the park. At Broadway Smiles, we believe in the power of knowledge to help our Vancouver patients keep their smiles bright and healthy. In today’s conversation, we’ll unravel five everyday reasons behind tooth loss, along with some useful tips on how you can dodge them and hold on to your beautiful smile.
1. Gum Troubles
The number one reason adults lose their teeth is something called gum disease. It starts when leftover food bits in your mouth turn into a sticky film called plaque. If plaque stays on your teeth too long, it can cause your gums to get red, swollen, and sometimes bleed. If this isn’t treated, it can get worse and damage the bone of your jaw that keep your teeth in place, causing them to get loose and fall out. The best way to avoid this? Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and make sure to see your dentist regularly.
2. Tooth Decay
Another common reason people lose teeth is due to cavities, also known as tooth decay. Cavities are like tiny holes that form on your teeth when you eat lots of sugary or acidic foods and don’t clean your teeth properly. If these cavities aren’t treated, they can get bigger and bigger, and eventually destroy the tooth. The good news? You can avoid cavities by eating less sugar, brushing your teeth with toothpaste that contains fluoride (which strengthens your teeth), and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings.
3. Accidents
Sometimes, people lose teeth because of accidents or injuries, like falling off a bike or getting hit by a ball during sports. These can cause a tooth to get knocked out. To avoid accidents, wear a mouthguard when you play contact sports, be careful when walking on slippery floors, and never use your teeth to do things they’re not meant to do, like opening a bottle or tearing open a package.
4. Bad Eating Habits
Did you know that eating lots of junk food and not enough healthy food can hurt your teeth? It’s true! Your teeth need vitamins and minerals from healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy to stay strong. So, try to eat a balanced diet to keep your teeth healthy and avoid tooth loss.
5. Smoking
People who smoke cigarettes or use other kinds of tobacco have a higher chance of losing their teeth. That’s because tobacco can cause gum disease and mouth cancer, which can lead to tooth loss. Abstaining from smoking or chewing tobacco can help keep your teeth healthy.
Losing a tooth can be a big deal, but the good news is it can often be prevented. Now that you know the common reasons why people lose their teeth, you can take steps to keep your smile healthy and bright. If you have any questions or need some more tips, our team at Broadway Smiles is always ready to help. Remember, a little bit of care each day goes a long way in keeping your smile in top shape!