5 Tips To Prevent Missing Teeth
ShareMissing teeth are not just a cosmetic issue; they can also affect the way you eat and speak. Whether they are caused by decay or trauma, missing teeth can definitely make your life more difficult. That is why it is best lower your risk of losing your pearly whites. Here are five helpful tips to prevent missing teeth:
- Stop Grinding. Grinding is one of the worst things you can do for your teeth. When you clench your pearly whites together, you can weaken the enamel and make them more prone to chips. This habit can be pretty difficult to break if you do it at night, so ask your dentist about getting a custom mouth guard. This mouth guard will fit comfortably in your mouth and prevent you from grinding your teeth while you sleep.
- Be Careful With Sugar. Sugar acts as a breeding ground for mouth bacteria, so it is best to limit it from your diet. When you do have a craving for a sweet treat, you should at least remember to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Include Calcium in Your Diet. Another way you can keep your teeth for life is to include calcium in your diet. Calcium keeps your teeth strong and less susceptible to cracks and chips. Besides milk, yogurt, cheese and broccoli are great sources of calcium.
- Don't Use Your Teeth as Tools. Teeth are quite sharp, so they can be effective at tearing clothing tags off or opening up bottles. However, you should refrain from using your teeth as tools. Doing so can wear down the enamel over time. Chewing food is the only thing you should ever use your teeth for.
- Say No to Smoking. If you want to keep your teeth for the rest of your life, it is time to put the cigarettes down. Smoking tobacco constricts proper blood to your gums, putting them at risk of infection. When you develop gum disease, you are more likely to lose your teeth. Quitting the habit will also reduce your risk of oral cancer and bad breath.
Losing your teeth is not inevitable. If you follow these helpful tips, you can keep your pearly whites healthy and strong. Also, never skip checkups to the dentist's office, even if your teeth seem like they are in good shape. Your dentist will fully examine your teeth to make sure they are in good shape.