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Are You at Increased Risk for Tooth Loss?
Tooth loss is an inherent risk for anyone who fails to take proper care of their teeth. Preventive careÑwhich includes frequent dental cleanings and exams (a minimum of two a year), brushing teeth at least twice a day, and flossing dailyÑis vital to optimum oral health and can help you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime. But some people are naturally more at risk for losing teeth than others. Do you fall into any of these categories?
Post-menopausal women: Recent research suggests that low estrogen levels, common in women after menopause, can put them at risk for developing severe gum disease, according to Dr. Barbara J. Steinberg, spokesperson on women's oral health issues for the American Dental Association.
People with osteoporosis: Decreased bone density in the jaw means that teeth may no longer have as solid a foundation as they need. As a result, they may become loose. Women are most at risk for developing osteoporosis. Other risk factors include smoking, heavy daily alcohol consumption, a life-long low intake of calcium, family history of osteoporosis, advanced age, a slender build, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Those who are genetically pre-disposed to periodontal (gum) disease: Some people are more prone to developing periodontal disease, which slowly and painlessly causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease can also cause the supporting bone tissue to dissolve, permanently loosening teeth.
Smokeless tobacco users: A recent study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that those who use smokeless tobacco are more than four times more likely to develop tooth decay than non-users; untreated tooth decay can lead to tooth loss.
If you fall into any of these high-risk groups, it's vital to your oral health that you are meticulous about your daily oral hygiene habits and that you see us regularly for exams and cleaningsÑtwo of the best ways to make sure you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime.
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