Tooth Replacement Question — Common Causes of Tooth Loss

Getting a tooth replacement is an important procedure if you have lost one tooth or multiple teeth. Living with gaps in your mouth can be embarrassing and cause you to have low self-esteem. You may have difficulty eating and enjoying a well-balanced meal. When you lose a tooth, bone loss can also occur, which can change the shape of your face. It is helpful to understand what can contribute to tooth loss so that you can avoid it.

What tooth replacement options are most popular

Losing a permanent tooth is a serious condition. This is not something that patients want to live with. The good news is the dentist can recommend various options. Each of these has benefits. The patients’ choice depends on the severity of the condition as well as their needs and goals.

Dentures have been a tooth-replacement option for centuries. They can come in full or partial form. Dental implants are a durable, long-lasting treatment. These are made of titanium and closely resemble natural teeth. Another possibility is to get a dental bridge. Bridges are a good choice for one or two missing teeth.

Trauma and accidents

Even people who have good oral hygiene can suffer tooth loss and seek a tooth replacement treatment. Injuries while playing sports can knock out a tooth. An elbow to the face or getting hit by an object can dislodge a tooth or damage it. Also, hard falls or hitting something face-first, such as in a car or bike accident, can cause tooth loss. Some people lose teeth by biting into a hard object such as certain foods or a utensil.

Using teeth as a tool

Teeth are strong and can stand up to a lot of wear and tear. They are made of the hardest substance in the body. Still, using teeth for the wrong reason can knock them out. Trying to open packages, bottles, or other objects with teeth can lead to tooth loss.

Tooth decay

Failing to brush and floss properly and regularly can cause cavities. A dentist can treat cavities with fillings or root canals. However, if the patient does not go to the dentist, the decay can grow and affect more of the tooth. Infections can also develop, threatening not only the tooth but the face and other areas of the body. Tooth replacement is necessary for the most serious cavities.

Gum disease

Another consequence of poor oral hygiene can be gum disease. When gum disease affects the person, bacteria attack the tissue. The gums can become inflamed and bleed. Eventually, the bacteria will destroy the tissue, leaving nothing left to support the teeth. The teeth will become loose and fall out.

Your diligence and attention can prevent tooth loss

It is comforting to know that tooth replacement methods are available if you have lost teeth. Your dentist can recommend the right solution. However, it is good in the first place to never lose teeth. As you understand the causes of tooth loss, you can be on guard and use preventive measures to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Request an appointment here: https://totalcareimplantdentistry.com or call Total Care Implant Dentistry at (760) 394-3088 for an appointment in our Palm Desert office.

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