No one wants to lose a tooth. As children, teeth falling out was normal and expected, making it less upsetting. However, adult teeth are supposed to survive the duration of a lifetime, meaning that when they are lost it is a more painful experience. There are so many different circumstances under which people can lose their adult teeth. Getting into an accident, suffering from an illness, neglecting their oral health, and plenty other possible factors could result in tooth loss. If you are about to or have recently experienced tooth loss, here’s what you can do to care for your smile and feel more like yourself again.
Care for the Remaining Teeth
Whether you have lost one tooth or many, it is important to take care of any remaining natural teeth. Apart from their purpose to eat and speak, teeth also maintain proper strength in the bones of the skull and jaw. Without them, these bones would eventually weaken. Make time in your daily routine for brushing your remaining teeth for two minutes each time.
Research Types of Dental Replacements
Losing teeth doesn’t mean you have to go without. Replacement teeth come in a variety of forms nowadays thanks to medical technology and different market demands. One of the most advanced and popular methods of multiple tooth replacement is All On 4 dental implants. This procedure consists of implanting four screws upon which the entire arch can be attached. The results can be cared for much like natural teeth, unlike removable dentures which require special cleaning and fixatives.
Adapt Your Diet and Lifestyle Habits
Despite the fact that they need to be sturdy and able to withstand daily pressures, teeth still need to be given a chance to survive by avoiding the most damaging substances. Tooth loss doesn’t mean you should give up on your oral health. Being more considerate of the food and drink you ingest will make a big difference to the bacteria in your mouth and the potential for decay. Cut down on alcohol and smoking to improve your chances of better overall health, including for your teeth and gums.
Visit the Dentist
No matter how many teeth are natural or prosthetic, visiting the dentist is still a priority for maintaining good oral health. They will be able to identify potential problems before they become serious and will advise on how to solve them. You may be afraid of the dentist and this is perfectly normal, but it doesn’t mean you should avoid attending your appointments. Doing this is more likely to lead to painful dental treatment in the future.
It isn’t easy losing a tooth or multiple teeth as an adult. Missing teeth can alter your whole appearance and change how you eat and speak. In the worst cases, losing teeth can negatively impact a person’s ability to maintain social connections due to feelings of insecurity and low self-esteem. Fortunately, today’s medical technology makes it more straightforward for missing teeth to be replaced and for everyone’s smiles to stay healthy.
