As you get older, brushing and flossing alone may not be enough to keep your smile intact. You need to be attentive to keeping your teeth straight and free of visible chips and wear. Here are some important tips on what you can do to keep your smile looking its best.
Replace Missing Teeth
If you need to have a tooth extracted, consider replacing it to avoid damage to other teeth. You may be inclined to simply try to do without the tooth, especially if it’s near the back of your mouth. However, changes to your bite in one area will cause changes in other areas. Your teeth may not be coming into contact with one another as they once did. Also, bone loss in the area could cause your other teeth to shift forward. For help with dental implants in Newport News, connect with a provider who is experienced in helping people prevent tooth damage.
Wear a Night Guard
It’s extremely common for people to do serious harm to their teeth when they sleep. Nighttime grinding and clenching can cause broken dental work, broken teeth, and even changes to your teeth’s alignment. A night guard will protect your teeth while you sleep. You can have a night guard custom made for you.
Stop Daytime Clenching
Some people clench and grind their teeth throughout the day rather than only at night. If you feel your jaw is clenching throughout the day or you continually feel jaw pain, you may need to take action. Try to keep your jaw relaxed. Holding your tongue a little more forward in your mouth than you usually do may help. Some individuals find it helpful to wear a mouthguard in the daytime. This type of mouth guard isn’t like what you’d see athletes wear. It’s much thinner, and you’ll still able to speak clearly while wearing it.
