As we grow older, so does our risk of losing teeth. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons have conducted studies showing that between the ages of 35 and 44 most adults lose at least one permanent tooth, with the rate of tooth loss increasing as they age. What causes tooth loss? What can we do to protect our smiles?
Gum Disease
Did you know gum disease can lead to tooth loss? Periodontitis is an advanced stage of the disease, one that causes the connective tissue between the teeth and gums to dissolve. Patients can then experience loose teeth and eventually lose their teeth. While gum disease can’t be cured, it can be treated and successfully managed, allowing you to avoid premature tooth loss.
Poor Oral Hygiene
When you fail to take care of your smile you can develop issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Eventually, poor oral hygiene can lead to teeth becoming infected and eventually, lost. To avoid this, we suggest taking better care of your teeth. You need to brush and floss them daily. You should also see a dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
Infection
What is an infection? When decay or damage lets bacteria come into contact with the inner pulp, an infection occurs. If the issue isn’t treated with a root canal soon enough, the tooth will become lost. Symptoms of an infection include toothaches, pain when biting down or chewing, fever, and swelling near the tooth.
Replacement Options
Once you’ve lost a tooth, then what? Well, we can help return your smile to full function and health with a dental prosthetic. Our tooth replacement options include:
- Dental Bridges
- Dental Implants
- Implant-Retained Dentures
If you have any questions about preventing tooth loss or replacing missing teeth, then contact our office today.
