While the ravages of time and age are well known to facilitate tooth loss, they are not the only contributing factors. In a recent Journal of Periodontology, dental experts listed a total of nine significant risk factors for tooth loss, some of which may come as a surprise to adults in the U.S..
Much more than this, however, the factors listed in the publication suggest that you may be able to assume at least partial responsibility for avoiding tooth loss. This is because although some of the risk factors are determined by age and gender, others can be influenced by a change in philosophy or behavior.
The Nine Risk Factors for tooth loss: Take Control of your Oral Health
The published list can be segregated into 2 sections. The first details physical and biological risk factors, which have been established through research and cannot be influenced by an individual’s actions: –
- Being older than 35
- Being male
- Front teeth being more susceptible to gum disease that those at the back of the mouth.
These risk factors are well known to dental professionals and patients alike, but there are 6 additional risks that also increase the likelihood of tooth loss. The difference with these factors is that they can be influenced by human behaviour, and this knowledge allows patients nationwide to assume far greater control of their dental health:
- Never receiving professional dental care
- Never using a toothbrush
- Past or present smoking
- Having diabetes
- Having high blood pressure
- Having rheumatoid arthritis
While we know that smoking provides a significant risk to oral health, factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure also increase the risk of tooth loss in adults. This serves to strengthen the link between an individuals dental health and their general physical well being, and proves the value of arranging regular medical and dental check ups for your overall health.
Prevention and Cure for tooth loss in 2012
Regular dental visits and a regular program of oral maintenance will minimize the risk of long term tooth loss. Proper dental care can also help to preserve your general health, while assisting in the early identification of any potential diseases or ailments. This process begins with the recognition of key risk factors that lead to tooth loss through periodontal disease, and taking the necessary steps to negate them.
If you have lost teeth due to these risk factors or for any other reason, we suggest you contact Colorado Springs dentist, Dr. Andrew Hall. Dr. Hall’s extensive experience in placing dental implants will help ensure that your dental restoration goes as smoothly as possible. Book an appointment today for a free consulation and find out if a new dental implant is the right treatment for you.
