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Tooth loss is majorly represented by the gap in between your teeth or that whole missing segment one may have on one or both jaws. It might have happened after an accident, a fight, or due to a delay in preventive or restorative dental treatment.
Common causes of tooth loss in adults
The most common causes of tooth loss in adults are:
Dental caries
Gum disease
Traumatic experiences like road traffic accidents
DENTAL CARIES
Commonly known as cavities, dental caries is a progressive disease that destroys tooth structure. It is caused by bacteria acting on food stuck on the tooth surface. It first appears as a whitish discoloration then proceeds to change to a dark brown color. Sensitivity and food getting stuck in the cavities are the first symptoms of the disease. If untreated or ignored, sensitivity increases and progresses to pain.
Treatment of dental caries begins with prevention. Brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental caries.
Dental floss is also essential in one’s daily oral hygiene regimen. Flossing helps remove that piece of meat or cake stuck in between your teeth.
Visiting the dentist at least once a year helps spot any tooth with cavities. The dentist may employ the following treatment regimen:
- Oral prophylaxis
- Fluoride application
- Pit and fissure sealants
- Fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Extraction
- Replacement of teeth that have been extracted.
- Gum disease
Gum diseases really affect the supporting structure of the teeth. Commonly affecting many people is gingivitis and with further progression, it leads to periodontitis
Gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by plaque which is a mixture of food, saliva, and bacteria. Plaque appears as a yellowish substance on the surface of the teeth. If not removed by brushing, it hardens to form calculus. Calculus is the hard yellow or brown substance that you find near the gum. It is difficult to remove calculus by brushing at home. A visit to the dentist is therefore advised.
Some common signs of gum disease are; bleeding gums, swollen gums, bad breath, and mobile teeth. Anyone with these symptoms is advised to see a dentist where the following can be done:
- Oral prophylaxis
- Fluoride application
- Scaling (cleaning ) and polishing
- Splinting of mobile teeth
- Extraction of mobile teeth
- Replacement of teeth
- Surgeries of the gingiva
Trauma
A fall, hard object, or someone’s fist may make you lose a tooth or two. Tragic occurrences like road accidents, bomb attacks, and house falls may also lead to loss of teeth.
Depending on the severity of tooth damage, a dentist may help in the following ways;
- Fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Posts
- Crowns and bridges
- Partial dentures
- Dental implants
If you are active in sports, we recommend you consider wearing a mouthguard every time you get in action to help safeguard your teeth.
Other tooth-loss risk factors
People suffering from chronic illnesses like diabetes, arthritis, and cancer are also at risk of tooth loss. Proper oral hygiene and a visit to the dentist are recommended to all chronically ill patients.