Tooth loss is a serious oral health issue among patients of all ages, and it only becomes more common with age. But whether you are missing one or more teeth, modern dentistry offers a wide range of solutions. Which option is right for you depends on several factors, such as the cause of your tooth loss and what your preferences are.

Understanding the causes of missing teeth and the available tooth replacement options can help you enjoy a functional, beautiful, and healthy smile at any age.

Top Causes of Tooth Loss in Adults

There are many potential causes of tooth loss in adults, ranging from oral health issues to accidents and lifestyle choices.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. This condition happens when bacteria in your mouth infiltrate and infect gum tissue. Bacteria are always present in your mouth, but a good oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits can keep them under control.

The earliest symptoms of gum disease typically include bad breath and red, swollen, or bleeding gums. As the condition progresses, gum tissue can recede away from your teeth and form pockets. Eventually, the tissue surrounding teeth weakens to the point that the teeth become loose and fall out.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is also caused by bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria secrete acid when they metabolize bits of food. That acid weakens enamel, which is then slowly worn away. A cavity can form as a result, which provides shelter for bacteria and can deepen over time if not treated.

Eventually, the cavity reaches the inner layers of the tooth, and the pulp and nerve tissue can become infected. A root canal is necessary to save the tooth at this stage. If left untreated, the infection can worsen and form an abscess, which may require an extraction.

Trauma or Injury

Dental trauma is another potential cause of tooth loss that can affect anyone. Some common causes of dental trauma include sporting activities, vehicle accidents, and simple falls.

When a tooth is knocked out, it can often be put back in the socket if you get immediate treatment. Similarly, chipped or cracked teeth can frequently be saved with a dental crown. However, severe dental trauma can sometimes prohibit saving the tooth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

If you aren’t sticking to a good oral hygiene routine, you could be at serious risk of tooth loss. Skipping out on brushing and flossing—or not following the proper technique—lets bacteria rapidly multiply and form plaque and tartar deposits. This can elevate your risk of both tooth decay and gum disease.

Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking and other forms of tobacco use are key risk factors in a wide range of oral health issues. Tobacco use can contribute to gum disease, which can then result in tooth loss. It also weakens your immune response, making any tooth or gum infections more likely to lead to serious complications.

Best Tooth Replacement Options

Once a tooth has been lost, it’s important to replace it to safeguard your oral health, support proper function, and restore the beauty of your smile. Take a closer look at these effective tooth replacement options that can apply to a wide variety of cases.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are among the most versatile tooth replacement options available today. The titanium implants are embedded in the jawbone, providing a strong and lasting foundation for replacement teeth. They can support crowns, bridges, or full-arch replacements.

The solid foundation ensures that dental implants won’t budge, supporting easy eating and speaking while maintaining comfort. With their natural appearance, implants also give you a smile that is as stunning as it is functional.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge spans the gap over a missing tooth, using surrounding natural teeth as a foundation. If you’re missing a tooth (or teeth) with healthy surrounding teeth, then a dental bridge could be an option.

Dental bridges provide similar stability and reliability as dental implants. However, it requires crowning the two surrounding natural teeth. This process removes enamel to prepare the teeth, which is something that dental implants can avoid.

Dentures

Dentures have traditionally been the go-to solution for tooth replacement. Full dentures can replace an entire smile, restoring function and appearance. Partial dentures are also available for individual or multiple missing teeth.

Dentures don’t offer the same stability or long-term health benefits as dental implants. But they are highly affordable and can be prepared quickly. Because they don’t require implant surgery or other procedures, dentures can serve as a viable option for nearly all patients.

Find the right tooth replacement option to complete your smile.

Many factors contribute to tooth loss, from gum disease to injury. Implants, bridges, and dentures are some of the best ways to address missing teeth. In any case, maintaining good oral hygiene is the key to protecting your smile, and it’s important to regularly seek personalized advice from your dentist. Kathleen Balthasar, DDS, is your trusted local dentist for a full range of restorative dentistry treatments, including dental implants, near Williamsville, New York. Schedule a consultation today to find out which option is best for you.