In this post, we explore tooth loss causes and treatments. Whether caused by untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or dental trauma, losing a tooth can have significant implications for oral health and overall well-being. To put things into perspective, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry found that 3 million adults in the US had dental implants, and about 500,000 get an implant each year. In 2020, about 40.99 million adults had either partial or full dentures due to several missing teeth.

Top 3 Tooth Loss Causes

1. Untreated Tooth Decay: Untreated tooth decay is one of the primary causes of tooth loss. When cavities are left untreated, they can progress and lead to infections, abscesses, and eventually tooth loss.
2. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease): Gum disease is a progressive condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, it can cause gum recession, bone loss, and tooth mobility, ultimately resulting in tooth loss.
3. Dental Trauma: Dental trauma, such as accidents, sports injuries, or falls, can cause significant damage to teeth. Severe trauma may lead to irreparable fractures or avulsion (complete dislodgment) of the tooth, necessitating tooth extraction.

Best Options for Tooth Loss Dental Treatment:

There are several dental treatment options available to address tooth loss, depending on the severity of the case and the patient’s specific needs:

1. Dental Implants: Dental implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. They are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Once the implant integrates with the bone (osseointegration), a lifelike dental crown is placed on top, creating a permanent and durable solution that closely resembles a natural tooth.
2. Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of prosthetic teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns on adjacent healthy teeth. Bridges are a non-removable option that restores the appearance and function of missing teeth.
3. Dentures: Dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace multiple missing teeth. They come in various types, including partial dentures (for replacing some missing teeth) and complete dentures (for replacing all teeth in an arch). While dentures are a more affordable option, they may require periodic adjustments and can have certain limitations in terms of stability and function compared to dental implants.
4. Implant-Supported Dentures: Combining the benefits of dental implants and dentures, implant-supported dentures provide enhanced stability and comfort. They are secured to dental implants, preventing slippage or movement while eating or speaking.
5. All-on-4 or All-on-6 Implant Restorations: These are advanced implant-supported options for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. They involve the strategic placement of four or six dental implants in each arch to support a fixed dental bridge or full set of dentures.
6. Resin-Bonded Bridges: Also known as Maryland bridges, these are conservative options for replacing missing front teeth. They involve bonding a porcelain or metal framework to the adjacent teeth with minimal preparation.

Contact Pasha Dental Group today for a consultation. Early intervention and proper dental care is always the preferred method of preventing tooth loss. As a dental practice that honors the Biomimetic Approach, we do our best to prescribe treatments that maintain your natural teeth. However, in cases where tooth loss occurs, these dental treatment options we provide are effective solutions for restoring function, aesthetics, and confidence in one’s smile.