If you've reached middle age, you're probably starting to wonder about your teeth. Many people believe that tooth loss is a natural part of growing old. This is a belief that's not entirely correct. In fact, with proper dental care, you may never have to suffer tooth loss. You can work with your dentist to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here are a few things you can do to prevent premature tooth loss.

Visit Your Dentist Twice A Year

You probably already know that you should be seeing your dentist twice a year, but you might not understand the full importance of the routine. While your dentist will clean your teeth and take fill any cavities you might have, your dentist will also examine your mouth for signs of gum disease. Some of the issues your dentist will be looking for include:

• Receding gum lines
• Spaces between the teeth (especially changes in existing spaces)
• Presence of pus along the gumline or between teeth
• Loose teeth

Brush And Floss At Least Twice A Day

You know that brushing and flossing will remove food, germs and bacteria from your mouth. However, they also strengthen your gums and helps keep them healthier. Gums that are healthy have better circulation, which means that your teeth will stay healthier too.

Use Medicated Oral Rinses

In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth several times a day, you should also be gargling with a medicated rinse twice a day. Not only will a medicated rinse keep your breath smelling fresh, it will also kill the germs and bacteria that could lead to gum disease. If you don't want to spend money on an over-the-counter rinse, you can make your own.

Supplies You'll Need

• Glass container
• Clove oil
• Tea tree oil
• Peppermint oil

Directions

1. Pour 2 ounces of water into your glass container.
2. Add 10 drops each of clove, tea tree, and peppermint oil.
3. Place lid on bottle and shake well.
4. Gargle with a teaspoon of the mouthwash twice a day.

You want to keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. One way to prevent premature tooth loss is to take good care of your teeth. Use these simple methods to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. It's important to note that even with proper dental care, issues can develop with your teeth. Be sure to talk to your dentist like Periodontology Associates about any dental problems that you might develop.