Physical changes are often mistakenly seen as inevitable signs of aging. For example, tooth loss is widely accepted as a normal part of aging and is considered a natural process of getting older. However, the reality is not so simple. Tooth loss is mainly attributed to dental diseases, especially periodontal disease, rather than just the aging process. This is closely related to individuals’ oral hygiene habits and their awareness of dental care. Neglecting early symptoms such as bleeding and swollen gums or lacking daily oral hygiene practices can accelerate tooth loss.
In fact, many elderly people maintain healthy teeth, while some young people have worse dental conditions than their elders. The World Health Organization advocates the “8020” principle, which suggests that an 80-year-old should have at least 20 functional teeth, highlighting the importance of maintaining dental health. Unfortunately, data shows that on average, people over 60 in China are missing around 10 teeth, raising concerns about oral health.
Maintaining oral health involves more than just preserving the number of teeth. It includes cleanliness, cavity-free teeth, well-aligned teeth, normal gum color, absence of pain or bleeding, no tooth crowding, no bad breath, and comfortable biting. These functional indicators apply to individuals of all ages, reminding us that protecting our teeth should start at a young age and not wait until old age to regret not taking care properly.
To promote dental health, it is important to maintain basic oral hygiene habits in daily life such as brushing your teeth correctly for at least two to three minutes in the morning and evening, avoiding excessive force. Regular teeth cleaning is also an effective way to prevent oral diseases as it can help identify and address problems in a timely manner. Using dental floss instead of toothpicks to clean between teeth is recommended to reduce gum damage and prevent gaps from widening.
Dental health is closely linked to overall well-being, as poor oral health can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, affect diabetes management, and underscore the importance of maintaining oral hygiene. Therefore, when facing tooth loss or other oral issues, seeking timely medical examination and early intervention can not only alleviate personal suffering but also effectively prevent more serious health consequences, improve quality of life, and increase life expectancy. Dental health is a crucial topic throughout one’s life and should not be overlooked.
