At Fitzgerald Dental Implant Center, Dr. Lee Fitzgerald and our expert team use dental implants to replace missing teeth and stabilize loose, painful dentures. Dental implants provide an attractive alternative to other tooth replacement methods and give patients beautiful, long-lasting smiles.
At our North Dallas practice, we help remedy the problems of missing teeth, and we educate patients on how to keep existing teeth strong and healthy. Today, we discuss the causes of tooth loss and how to combat this prevalent condition.
Tooth Loss Statistics
Sixty-nine percent of adults have lost at least one tooth, and fifty million Americans have lost all of their teeth. As these statistics indicate, tooth loss affects a large segment of the population. It poses a serious problem to oral and overall health.
Top Three Causes of Tooth Loss
Tooth loss can occur for many reasons, but here are the top three:
Periodontal (Gum) Disease: A bacterial infection of the gums, periodontal disease attacks healthy tissue. Caught in the early stage (called gingivitis), gum disease can be reversed. Left untreated, the infection can progress to its most severe form: periodontitis. The bonds between teeth and gums are destroyed, causing tooth, gum, and bone loss. Periodontitis is a major cause of tooth loss in people aged 65 and older.
Tooth Decay: Cavities occur when plaque hardens on tooth surfaces. The plaque produces acids that eat away at teeth. If not addressed promptly, the hole that forms on the exterior of a tooth can penetrate the interior of a tooth, causing pain and significant damage, including tooth loss.
Accidents are another common cause of tooth loss. Whether from a sports-related injury, automobile accident, or fall, teeth that sustain a major impact often sustain irreparable damage.
Prevention
Preventing tooth loss requires proactive steps that include:
- Brushing twice daily or as directed by the dentist
- Flossing daily
- Attending regular checkups and dental cleanings at our office
- Wearing a mouthguard when participating in athletic activities
- Being mindful of situations in which falls might occur
- Driving safely to prevent accidents
We want smiles to stay strong and healthy for a lifetime. As our patient, you’ll receive comprehensive care to maintain the teeth that you have and restore damaged or missing ones. Call Fitzgerald Dental Implant Center today and achieve your best smile.