Taking care of your teeth is often among the first things you learn about health. Tooth loss and tooth loosening can rob you of the ability to digest food correctly or chew. It can seriously affect your emotional health, impacting your self-esteem, and quality of life. Tooth loss happens when one or more teeth are missing or require removal as a result of disease or injury. Fortunately, you can prevent most causes of tooth loss. That’s why it’s essential to visit your dentist often and maintain a proper oral health routine. Here are possible causes of tooth loss:
Cavities
A cavity is a hole in your teeth that results from a bacterial infection that turns into tooth decay. Cavities, when left untreated for a long time, can destroy your pulp. A damaged pulp may require a root canal procedure or tooth extraction. You can prevent losing your teeth due to cavities by practicing proper oral health habits, visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups, and choosing healthy drinks and foods. Notably, early treatment, such as a tooth implant in Scottsdale, AZ, can save your tooth.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease affects your gums, bone, and ligaments surrounding and supporting your teeth. Gum disease is a leading cause of teeth shifting and extraction. Periodontal disease begins when the bacterial plaque that forms on a tooth around its gum line turns into tartar when you fail to floss or brush adequately. Gums develop pockets around your tooth that encourage the accumulation of bacteria and toxins. As a result, it causes loss of connective tissue and bone. You can save your tooth by incorporating good home care oral habits to prevent periodontal disease. Also, dentists treat advanced gum disease through surgeries or deep cleanings to save your tooth.
Fear And Embarrassment
Most people suffering from dental anxiety often fail to seek dental treatment when in pain. Dental phobia is a leading cause of tooth loss because patients are afraid of visiting a dentist even when they have a dental problem. Also, others feel ashamed of seeking dental treatment for fear of being judged or blamed negatively for their teeth condition. Postponing tooth decay and other severe dental concerns can worsen the issue and cause teeth extraction.
Physical Injury
Accidents are inevitable, especially for sportspeople. That’s why it’s essential to use mouth guards. Car accidents and falls can also necessitate teeth extraction. But, you can prevent some causes of tooth loosening or loss through accidents by being more vigilant. For instance, it’s wise to avoid using your teeth to tear off tags, remove caps or lids, and loosening knots. You can also keep your teeth intact by not chewing ice or open nutshells.
Other Risk Factors
Systemic conditions, such as diabetes, HIV infection, heart disease, and smoking can cause tooth loss. Some treatments, such as head radiation therapy and chemotherapy, weaken your immune system. The medications often increase the risks of infected teeth, increasing the need for teeth extraction.
Missing teeth must not be a lifelong issue. You can choose from an array of solutions for a beautiful smile and proper oral health. A solution, such as dental implants, offers long-term and natural-looking replacement for a severely damaged or missing tooth. Visit a dentist for dental implants and other options available to you.
