Your Tooth Loss Solutions at Bent Tree Dental

Tooth loss is a prevalent issue for many adults. It can significantly impact oral health and overall well-being. Beyond aesthetic concerns, missing teeth can affect speech, chewing functionality, and self-esteem. While common, tooth loss can often be prevented. Understanding its root causes is key to prevention.

At Bent Tree Dental, we believe patient education is part of a proactive approach to preventive care. It also helps patients understand when and how to take action when teeth are lost. If you are concerned about your potential to lose teeth or are suffering from missing teeth already, keep reading to learn about the common causes and how we can replace missing teeth.

What Causes Tooth Loss? 

We understand that life’s unforeseen events can sometimes result in tooth loss for many patients. Some of the more common causes that result in missing teeth include:

• Dental trauma: Physical injury and dental trauma can be one of the more unexpected causes of tooth loss. Accidents like trip-and-falls or car crashes can result in knocked-out teeth. If a tooth is not immediately replaced, the remaining teeth will shift, leaving the gums exposed and susceptible to infection. Left untreated, gum infection can lead to gum disease that may cause further tooth loss.
• Tooth decay: Dental decay and cavities rank among the primary causes of tooth loss. Plaque-trapped bacteria erode tooth enamel, leading to decay. If this progresses, the infection moves deeper, requiring a root canal to save the tooth. In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.
• Illnesses: Certain chronic conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, and bone diseases, can contribute to gum disease, potentially leading to tooth loss. These conditions can compromise the body’s ability to fight infections, including those affecting the gums. Some conditions can also impact bone health or immune system function and accelerate the progression of gum disease. This can lead to tooth loss if unmanaged.
• Periodontal disease: One of the most common causes is periodontal disease (also called gum disease), which stems from plaque accumulation on the teeth. Left untreated, mild gingivitis can progress, causing severe infection and inflammation that lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventual tooth loss.

Other factors like aging and poor nutrition can also be a contributing factor. A diet lacking in nutrients like vitamin C and calcium can weaken teeth and gums, making them more susceptible to decay and gum disease.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

When bacteria in the mouth adhere to the teeth, they form a sticky film known as plaque. Over time, if not removed through proper oral hygiene, the plaque can harden and transform into tartar. Tartar buildup is more difficult to remove and can extend below the gum line, leading to irritation, inflammation, and gum disease. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings are important in preventing plaque buildup and the subsequent development of tartar. In addition to poor oral hygiene, some other causes of periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes, and sometimes dental bridges that no longer fit properly.

In the earliest stage, called gingivitis, your gums may be red, swollen, and tender. However, in many cases, it can be difficult to detect gingivitis on your own. Left untreated, the condition progresses to periodontitis—the most advanced form of gum disease—and can lead to tooth loss.

If you haven’t seen your dentist in a while and suspect you may have gum disease, we invite you to schedule a visit with Dr. Miller. Those struggling with swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, tooth sensitivity, or loose teeth may need professional gum disease treatment. At your visit, Dr. Miller will evaluate your oral health and determine which treatments you may need.

What Can I Do If I Experience Tooth Loss?

If you are dealing with tooth loss, mini dental implants present a cost-effective, efficient, and long-lasting solution. These implants provide a reliable remedy for missing teeth and are a durable alternative to restore your smile and oral function. Mini implants are half the size of traditional implants, measuring less than 3 millimeters in diameter. As a result of their narrow width, they are suitable for more patients—even those with small jawbones. Mini implants also require a less invasive procedure that results in a smoother recovery. And despite their size, mini implants are strong and durable. They can support a crown or bridge or anchor a denture.

Mini implants also stand out for their simplicity, comprising fewer components than traditional implants. Their streamlined design condenses the procedure, resulting in a quicker treatment process.

Visit Bent Tree Dental For Your Tooth Loss Solution

If you want to replace your missing teeth or explore preventative measures to avert tooth loss, we invite you to visit Bent Tree Dental. Dr. Miller and the team offer the latest dental technologies to help you achieve your desired smile.

Don’t wait to take steps toward better oral health. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.