The Most Common Reasons for Tooth Loss

Prevention is the cornerstone of excellent dental health. For instance, if you can prevent tooth decay from forming, then you won’t have to treat a cavity. If you can prevent gingivitis from developing, then you can avoid having to deal with gum disease for the rest of your life. Likewise, if you can prevent the common causes behind tooth loss, then you can avoid having to replace one or more lost teeth to maintain your smile. Fortunately, the most common reasons for tooth loss, including gum disease, are also highly preventable and treatable with proper care from your dentist.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, the more formal name for gum disease, is the most frequent cause of tooth loss for adults in the United States. This is due, in part, to the fact that gum disease isn’t always obvious when it first develops. Redness, inflammation, and bleeding become more noticeable as gum disease progresses and erodes your gum tissues, weakening their support of your teeth. In severe cases, one or more teeth are left without enough support to maintain them and they can fall out or require extraction.

Accidental Trauma

When a tooth sustains a forceful impact, its root can be knocked out of its socket within your jawbone. Known as tooth avulsion, a knocked out tooth can sometimes be replaced if treatment is sought immediately. However, if the tooth’s root and/or or crown are damaged from the impact, then the tooth could be lost and you may need to replace it.

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is only recommended when a tooth cannot be restored through any other means, but still remains on your dental ridge. Teeth that are severely infected with decay, or that are so damaged they cannot withstand the pressure of your bite, can pose a threat to the rest of your oral health if they remain. In such cases, extracting and replacing the tooth may your best option.

Learn More About How to Avoid Tooth Loss

In many cases, tooth loss is avoidable if you avoid the common causes behind it, such as gum disease. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, call our office in Baxter, MN at (218) 454-0523. We proudly welcome patients from Brainerd, Little Falls, Staples, Crosby-Ironton-Deerwood, and all surrounding communities.