Hello, and welcome back to our blog here at Same-Day Implants in Seattle. This is part two of our blog series where we take a look at why tooth loss is so prevalent among Americans. Last time, we took a look at the effect of diet and poor oral hygiene on tooth loss, as well as some natural causes that can lead to tooth loss. Keep reading to learn more and contact us today if need to replace one more missing teeth in Seattle.
Tooth Grinding
Grinding of the teeth either due to stress or while sleeping is a much bigger issue than many people realize. This condition is known as bruxism and will damage teeth by wearing away the enamel and can potentially damage the jaw. Since the enamel protects your teeth from bacteria, you’ll be more likely to get an infection.
According to an APA study, 63 percent of Americans report that they’re worried about our country’s future and around the same number report feeling stressed about work or money. This not only has an impact on our general well-being but it can contribute to issues like bruxism that affect people who are stressed or worried more than anyone else.
Genetics
You’ve probably heard before that genetics can have a huge effect on whether you develop medical conditions like cancer or diabetes. With that said, it’s no surprise that you’ll be more likely to inherit oral health conditions as well. The shape, size, and strength of your teeth are all affected by genetics in addition to your susceptibility to infection and cavities. Although this is by no means the final word on your oral health, it could mean tooth loss is inevitable when combined with poor oral hygiene.
Systemic Diseases
Systemic diseases such as diabetes could play a major role in whether we lose teeth at some point in our lives or how soon we lose them. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes have a higher chance of having serious gum disease than people who don’t have diabetes. As you’re probably aware, gum disease is the first sign of impending periodontal disease and eventual tooth loss. Since around 47 percent of American adults have mild to severe gum disease, it’s not hard to see why systemic diseases like diabetes can contribute to this issue of tooth loss.
Another thing to note is that systemic diseases are a two-way street. Not only will diabetes contribute to the onset of gum disease, but once gum disease is contracted, it can affect blood glucose levels which will worsen diabetes.
Not Seeking Help
Sure, there’s a lot you can do on your own to protect your teeth, but that doesn’t mean everyone is capable of preventing tooth loss all on their own. Many Americans avoid going to the dentist or the periodontist because they either don’t recognize the warning signs of oral health problems or they think their problems will go away. Although bacteria and plaque can be cleaned out of the mouth with good oral hygiene practice, anything beyond that calls for professional help. And living with a missing tooth will only lead to more bone loss in the jawbone and a higher chance of losing more teeth.
Contact Same-Day Implants
Same-Day Implants is proud to provide single-tooth, multiple-tooth, and all-on-4 dental implants for patients in Seattle. Although tooth loss is a common oral health issue, that doesn’t mean you need to live without the functionality and appearance of your natural teeth. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
