Most people don’t spend their days worrying about tooth loss as they age, especially if they haven’t lost any yet. But the phenomenon is a significant problem for millions of people, and millions more continue to lose teeth at an unacceptable rate. The good news is that tooth loss isn’t insurmountable, and it’s worth noting that tooth loss is, in many cases, highly preventable. If you still retain all of your teeth, then you have a good chance of keeping them by learning the important facts about tooth loss. If you’ve lost one or more already, then you have a better chance of preserving the rest of your smile with the same knowledge.
It’s permanent.
Unlike baby teeth, adult teeth don’t grow replacements when they’re lost, which is why they’re often referred to as our permanent teeth. If a tooth is damaged, it cannot heal itself, and if a tooth is lost, then the loss is permanent. However, your dentist can offer a number of customizable, lifelike tooth replacement solutions, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
It’s usually preventable.
Some causes of tooth loss, like accidental trauma, happen despite our best efforts at keeping our smiles healthy. Most causes, however, are preventable, including the most common reason behind tooth loss—gum disease. With regularly good hygiene and a consistent schedule of checkups and cleanings, you can prevent gum disease and other oral health issues that can eventually lead to tooth loss.
It can be rectified with dental implants.
Tooth loss may be permanent, but it isn’t untreatable. Bridges and dentures have long offered patients a viable option for regaining their confidence and the full function of their bites. Today, dental implants offer even more comprehensive results by replacing the roots of your lost teeth. In addition to replacing the visible crowns of your teeth, implant restorations also reestablish vital stimulation in your jawbone, which keeps the bone healthy and reduces your risks of future tooth loss.
There are several important factors involved with tooth loss, such as the consequences it can have on your smile for the rest of your life. To find out how to prevent tooth loss, or learn the best course of action to rebuild your smile afterward, schedule a consultation by calling Keelan Dental in Butler, PA, today at (724) 285-4153.