Many people wonder if it's possible to maintain healthy teeth without worrying about fillings, extractions, and expensive dental treatments. The good news is, it is possible! By following these four simple steps, you can set yourself up for dental success:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Using a round electric toothbrush is even better.
- Floss daily to clean between your teeth.
- Moderate consumption of sugary and acidic foods.
- Visit your dentist every six months. If this isn't feasible, a yearly check-up will suffice.
These strategies sound simple, but they can be challenging for some people to follow. Ignoring them can lead to multiple dental problems and ongoing treatments. While some may consider extracting teeth and opting for full dentures as a solution, this approach often yields unexpected outcomes.
Consequences of Tooth Loss
- Impaired Chewing: Natural teeth help us chew and enjoy a variety of foods. Tooth loss limits food choices. Full dentures don’t chew food as effectively, requiring adaptation and often leading to a restricted diet.
- Change in Facial Appearance: Teeth give shape to our face. Total tooth loss causes the cheeks and lips to collapse, making the face appear older.
- Speech Impairment: Teeth aid in speech. Losing teeth can alter speech, and using full dentures can cause a lisp.
- Psychological Problems: Tooth loss can lead to social anxiety, such as avoiding meals with friends or loved ones due to fear of dentures falling out during conversations and eating.
- Dental Cripple: Extensive tooth loss causes bone shrinkage, which continues throughout life. Dentures can accelerate bone loss, especially in the lower jaw, making it difficult to wear dentures and sometimes leading to jaw fractures.
Long-term Considerations
While the decision to extract teeth may be driven by financial concerns or the belief that it will eliminate dental issues, it often leads to extensive dental rehabilitations with dental implants. Just like natural teeth, implants require maintenance to prevent failure.
To avoid these complications and significant dental expenses, commit to the four strategies mentioned above. They will work for anyone dedicated to maintaining their dental health. For personalized guidance and care, find a dentist near me 2350 who can help you maintain your dental health.