A Parent’s Guide to Emergency Dental Care

Posted on: 1 August 2016

If you haven't been taking proper care of your teeth, it's time to start. Inadequate dental hygiene can lead to premature tooth loss. If premature tooth loss runs in your family, you already have an increased risk of suffering the same fate. However, with proper care, you can increase your odds of retaining your natural teeth. Here are three steps you can take to help keep your natural teeth strong and healthy.

See the Dentist Twice a Year

Healthy teeth begin with dental care. If you're not seeing your dentist at least twice a year, you might be increasing your risk of gum disease, which is the leading cause of premature tooth loss in adults. Unfortunately, studies show that between 15- 20% of middle-aged people suffer from gum disease. To keep your teeth as healthy as they can be, see your dentist twice a year and practice proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day.

Avoid Smoking

If you smoke, you may be jeopardizing your teeth. Studies show that smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease. If you're having a hard time quitting, you should speak to your dentist about a smoking cessation program. They can help curb the cravings while you quit smoking.

If you continue smoking, you need to pay close attention to your teeth and gums. Look for signs of swelling and redness around the gum line. These are both early signs of gum disease. When brushing your teeth, be sure to use a toothbrush with firm bristles. This will help remove the tartar and nicotine deposits from the surface of your teeth.

Get Your Health Issues Under Control

If you have certain health problems, such diabetes or heart disease, those conditions could be harming your teeth. Research has shown that diabetes can increase your risk of gum disease and premature tooth loss. If you have been diagnosed with a medical condition such as diabetes, you should talk to your dentist about ways to help keep your teeth healthy. It's also important that you tell your dentist about any changes you might notice with your teeth or gums.

You want to keep your teeth and gums healthy for as long as possible. Use the tips provided above to help prevent premature tooth loss. If you're facing premature tooth loss right now, you should talk to your dentist about dental implants.