Even though modern dentistry has incredible tooth replacement methods, most people probably want to preserve their natural teeth for as long as possible. Unfortunately, there are factors and situations that are out of our control when it comes to tooth loss. However, in general our habits certainly can influence the health of our teeth. Below, we cover the top 5 causes of tooth loss.

Top 5 Causes of Tooth Loss

In this article, we will discuss the top 4 causes of tooth loss and how to maintain the health of your natural teeth for as long as possible.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay usually starts with holes in the teeth called cavities, which are in many cases caused by bacteria in the mouth. If oral hygiene is insufficient and irregular, bacteria destroys teeth over time and cavities occur.

If cavities are left untreated, they can become deeper and affect the pulp and root canals of the teeth. This, in turn, can lead to tooth loss. What is worse, severe and untreated tooth decay can spread from one tooth to the surrounding teeth and affect gums and jawbone.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease or gum disease is an infection that destroys gums and can spread to the jawbone. When the gums and jawbone are weekend by infection, they can no longer properly support the teeth. This causes tooth loss.

The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. Gum disease starts with inflammation in the gums, which causes redness, tenderness, and swelling of the gums as its symptoms. Left untreated, the infection becomes more severe over time. The danger of gum disease is not only tooth loss but also heart and lung issues.

Physical Injuries

Unfortunately, in many cases, physical injuries that lead to tooth loss are not something we can prevent. Accidents, falls, and physical impacts to the face can all knock the tooth out of its socket or break it. In some cases, broken teeth can be restored, but if they are severely broken at the gum line, they will have to be extracted.

Losing teeth due to trauma while playing sports is also common. Thankfully, now there are mouth guards available to prevent that from happening. Mouth guards are especially recommended if you play contact sports. Another cause for broken teeth or tooth loss is using teeth as tools for example, for opening bottles or cracking nuts.

Smoking

Smoking and using tobacco products increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, mouth cancer, and other complications. All these factors can lead to tooth loss.

Other Risk Factors

The condition of our general health can also influence how healthy our teeth are. There are certain health issues that can result in tooth loss, including:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Hypertension
• Insufficient nutrition

If there are any of such conditions present, it is especially important to maintain proper oral hygiene to preserve your natural teeth.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

• Maintain good oral hygiene on a daily basis. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Make sure that no food particles are left in your mouth. You can also try using a mouth irrigator in addition to brushing and flossing to help get rid of the pluck along the gum line.
• Use fluoride toothpaste to provide additional support for your teeth. Fluoride strengthens the enamel of your teeth, which makes it more resistant to decay.
• Brush your tongue. A lot of residue and bacteria is collected on the tongue.
  Visit your dentist and periodontist every 6 to 12 months for checkups and professional cleanings.
• Try to avoid consuming a lot of sugar. Sugar increases the growth of harmful bacteria that linger in the plaque on your teeth.

Solutions for Tooth Loss

Nowadays, several teeth replacement solutions are available. These include dental bridges, dentures, and implants. At LA Wilshire Perio, we offer a revolutionary procedure called Teeth-In-A-Day. The advantage of the procedure compared to traditional dental implants is that it typically does not require bone grafting. The procedure allows you to secure permanent teeth by fastening them with just four dental implants. These dental implants are designed specifically for immediate functionality. Other benefits of this solution include:

• It can be done in one day.
• The procedure is minimally invasive.
• Less pain and swelling after the procedure
• Artificial teeth are as secure and stable as your natural teeth.
• The procedure is more cost-effective than installing traditional dental implants.

If you want to learn more about the Teeth-In-A-Day procedure or other solutions for tooth loss we offer, make an appointment at LA Wilshire Perio today. We will make sure that your smile is as healthy as it can be.