It’s completely normal for your teeth to fall out if you’re under the age of 12. In fact, you can consider it a rite of passage. Your primary teeth will fall out and be replaced with permanent ones. But losing a tooth as an adult is something you’d want to avoid. In this blog, we’ll be breaking down what causes tooth loss, how to treat it and how you can prevent the condition.
What Causes Tooth Loss?
Some common causes are:
- Periodontal disease. This oral issue affects the gums, tissues and bones that support the teeth. As the condition progresses, it can cause inflammation and infection that can spread below the gum and lead to tooth loss if untreated.
- Tooth decay. When you don’t practice proper oral hygiene, the harmful bacteria will build plaque and feed on sugars in your mouth. This results in the release of acids that break down your teeth. Left alone, decay will destroy portions of your teeth and ultimately cause tooth loss.
- Trauma. Sometimes accidents happen – from chewing hard foods to a ball in the face. Grinding your teeth at night can also cause your teeth to loosen. You should consider injuries like these as a dental emergency and immediately visit your dentist.
What Are Some Tooth Replacement Options?
Missing teeth impact your ability to eat meats, fruits and vegetables, and presents a challenge to having a healthy diet. Other teeth may also shift or over-erupt to compensate for the missing teeth. If you have one or more missing teeth, you have several options to replace them.
- Dentures. Depending on how many teeth have been lost, these can be full or partial dentures. They’re made in a lab and are based on an impression taken of your mouth.
- Bridge. A bridge is made up of false teeth that attach to surrounding natural teeth.
- Implant. This is a surgical procedure to replace the root and tooth by screwing a replica tooth into the jawbone.
How Can I Prevent Tooth Loss?
Tooth loss is largely preventable. You can avoid losing your teeth by seeing your dentist regularly and following these simple steps at home:
- Brush your teeth in the morning and before bedtime, and floss at least once a day.
- Limit the amount of sugar you consume and cut back on alcohol.
- Stay hydrated with water to reduce the chances of dry mouth.
If you need more preventive dentistry tips, don’t hesitate to ask our dentists at Kildonan Crossing Dental Centre for recommendations during your next visit. We’re conveniently located at the corner of Lagimodiere Boulevard and Regent Avenue near Transcona, East Kildonan, Valley Gardens, Elmwood and St. Boniface.