Talk to your Century City cosmetic dentist and he’ll tell you that taking care of your teeth and gums must be a lifelong commitment. Otherwise, you could wind up with gum disease, cavities, and even tooth loss.
While dental implants are an extremely successful solution to tooth loss, having your natural teeth is always the wisest choice. One of the best ways to protect your teeth and gums against tooth loss is to floss daily.
Floss Daily to Avoid Tooth Loss
The American Academy of Periodontology warns that periodontal disease is a widespread public health problem among Americans. While periodontal disease is not the only reason people lose their teeth, unhealthy gums can increase your chances of tooth loss. Flossing can reduce the appearance of periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease occurs when a layer of oral bacteria called plaque forms on your teeth. It appears as red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Left untreated it can result in tooth loss. Unfortunately, most dental experts agree that brushing alone can’t eliminate all the plaque in your mouth. Primarily because standard toothbrushes cannot reach in-between teeth, where plaque hides and gum disease is common.
To avoid cavities, periodontal disease, and tooth loss, you need to floss daily. When done properly, flossing removes plaque as well as food particles from your teeth and gums. Talk to your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist about proper flossing techniques.
Flossing Eliminates Need for Tooth Loss Solutions
Depending on the extent of your tooth loss, there are three typical tooth loss solutions: bridges, dentures, or dental implants. Which solution you and your Century City cosmetic dentist choose depends primarily on preference and individual situation.
Bridges are useful when a single natural tooth is missing. A simple bridge can span the gap between the remaining natural teeth. However, if you have more extensive tooth loss, your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist may suggest dentures.
Another option is dental implants. Whether you need a single tooth or several, dental implants are most like your natural teeth in look and in their ability to prevent jawbone loss. Additionally, dental implants are the best solution when it comes to maintaining your ability to speak and chew properly.
Of course, even better than any of these tooth loss solutions are your natural teeth. Teeth and implants may seem the same, but they’re not. Primarily, your natural tooth has a ligament that attaches the root to the bone and acts to soften impact to the tooth.
In the end, your goal should always be to maintain and retain your natural teeth whenever possible. One of the best ways to save your teeth and gums is to floss at least once daily.