Tooth loss is not unusual, particularly as we age. We can lose our teeth in a variety of ways, whether from tooth decay or trauma. With today’s state-of-the-art tooth replacement options, including dental implants, you can regain your smile no matter what causes your tooth loss.
Most people have lost at least one permanent tooth by the time they reach adulthood, even if it’s a wisdom tooth that required removal. In many cases, though, lost teeth occur accidentally, or as a result of preventable problems.
The most common cause of tooth loss among children and adolescents is trauma, particularly falls and sports-related injuries. The most common cause among adults is gum disease. You can prevent or reduce your risk of tooth loss by taking good care of your teeth and gums, avoiding activities or situations where accidents could take place, and protecting your teeth with a mouthguard when you participate in sports.
If you’ve lost one or more teeth in spite of precautions, you’ll have to decide whether to replace them, and how to replace them. It’s highly recommended to replace any missing tooth, even if it’s just one. Leaving a space in your smile encourages other teeth to move out of position, causing misalignment. This can cause extensive wear and tear, misalignment of the jaw joint, and can even eventually lead to the loss of even more teeth.
Implant dentistry is the best option for tooth replacement. Dental implants provide a tooth root as well as a strong, usable crown, giving you new teeth that look and feel completely natural. They also help keep your jawbone healthy, preventing the bone atrophy that commonly occurs with dentures. If you have one or more missing teeth, talk to your dentist about dental implants as a replacement option.
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