As you age, you may start to experience more health problems. However, many health issues are easy to prevent only if you take good care of yourself. But many people fail to realize that their oral health is just as important as the rest of their body.
Health Issues Caused by Missing Teeth
Did you know that missing a tooth or two does more than just damage your self-esteem? Here are some of the most common health risks associated with missing teeth:
Gum Disease
When you have a gap in your mouth, it provides bacteria with the perfect opportunity to enter and cause an infection. Gum disease is not only painful, but it can also lead to other serious health problems, such as heart disease.
Infection
An empty space in your mouth is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to an infection, which can be extremely painful and dangerous. Examples of infections that can occur due to missing teeth include abscesses and cellulitis.
Bone Loss
When you lose a tooth, the bone that held it in place starts to deteriorate. This can lead to bone loss and make your remaining teeth more susceptible to falling out. It can also make your jawbone weaker and more susceptible to fractures.
Indigestion and Other Health Issues
If you have trouble chewing, you may also have trouble digesting your food properly. This can lead to indigestion and other digestive problems like heartburn, constipation, and diarrhea.
An Increased Risk for Heart Disease
There is a link between oral health and heart disease. Studies have shown that people with gum disease are more likely to suffer from heart disease. This is because the bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the arteries. This can then lead to a heart attack or stroke.
How to Avoid the Dangers of Missing Teeth
The best way to avoid the dangers of missing teeth is to take good care of your teeth. This means brushing and flossing regularly regular cleaning, and eating a healthy diet. Aside from these tips, the following can help you prevent dealing with a missing tooth or so.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
One of the best ways to avoid the dangers of missing teeth is to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can spot problems early and help you avoid them before they start. This means that you can prevent the pain and expense of dealing with missing teeth.
When you have a tooth that requires removal, your dentist can also help you with teeth replacement options. This way, you don’t have to worry about the dangers of missing teeth.
Wear a Mouthguard
If you play sports, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth. This simple piece of equipment can help you avoid a lot of pain and expense down the road. You can avoid cracked, chipped, or broken teeth with a mouthguard.
It’s also a good idea to wear a mouthguard if you have a habit of grinding your teeth. This can help you avoid damaging your teeth and the need for dental work down the road. Your dentist can help you find the right mouthguard for your needs.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking is bad for your health but also terrible for your teeth. Smoking can lead to dental problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, and cancer. If you want to keep your teeth healthy, it’s best to say goodbye to smoking.
Consider Getting Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the best and most popular ways to replace missing teeth. They are permanent, and they look and feel just like natural teeth! You won’t have to worry about your false teeth falling out or getting loose, and you can eat whatever you want!
You can now get same-day dental implants sometimes, so you won’t have to wait months to get your smile back. Take note that you won’t necessarily come home with a new set of teeth after the procedure. It can take time for your implants to heal and fuse with your jawbone, but the wait is worth it!
You only need to find a reliable clinic offering such dental implant services and check if this is a good option. While some dentists have enough training and experience to do this, consulting with an oral surgeon is still best to ensure you get the best possible care. The right clinic will have professionals who can assess your situation, recommend the best treatment option, and answer any questions you may have.
Get Dental Insurance
Dental insurance can help you offset the cost of dental care. This way, you don’t have to worry about the high cost of dental procedures. Dental insurance allows you to get the care you need without breaking the bank.
There are a variety of dental insurance plans available, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget. Be sure to shop around and compare plans before you decide on one.
The dangers of missing teeth are real, but there are ways you can avoid them. By taking good care of your teeth, you can stay clear from a lot of pain and expense down the road. And if you have a missing tooth, options are available to help you replace it. So don’t wait – take action today to protect your teeth!
