The 3 Most Common Causes of Tooth Loss in Adults

It is normal for children to lose their teeth. In fact, it is often something that is celebrated. When an adult loses a tooth, it is not cause for celebration. Losing even one tooth can have a big impact on the way a person looks as well as the way they can eat. Read on to learn about three of the most common causes of tooth loss in adults. Then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you have lost a tooth and need help learning about options such as dental implants.

1. Tooth decay

If your teeth are allowed to decay, eventually you can lose a tooth. This is because when tooth decay is not treated, it actually disintegrates your teeth. This can happen slowly over years of not properly brushing or flossing and skipping appointments with the dentist. Tooth decay can also lead to lost teeth more quickly, such as situations in which an untreated cavity leads to infected pulp in your tooth.

This can lead to an abscess around or below the root of the tooth. A root canal may be able to fix this issue but the tooth cannot always be saved. The best ways to avoid losing a tooth due to decay include brushing and flossing regularly, getting regular exams and dental cleanings, and visiting your dentist as soon as you notice an issue with decay.

2. Gum disease

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is a serious condition. When in its mild form, gingivitis, it causes red, inflamed gums that may hurt. When it advances, your gums will actually begin to separate from your teeth and the bone structure in your mouth will be weakened. If the disease keeps progressing then the eventual result will be loose teeth that may fall out.

If we catch gum disease early, it can be reversed with a few simple changes to your lifestyle. Even when it advances, we have treatments that can help. Call your dentist if your gums hurt, bleed excessively, or are swollen.

3. An injury

Another common cause of tooth loss in adults is injury. This may involve being struck in the face or it may involve a car wreck or other type of accident. Injuries can even occur due to relatively small stresses, such as grinding your teeth. If a tooth is knocked out in a trauma then you should call your dentist for help right away. Losing a tooth suddenly due to an injury is always grounds for an emergency appointment with your dentist.

Call us now to keep your teeth in great shape

The bottom line is that if you want to reduce the chances that you will lose teeth as an adult, visit your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and exam. Call us if you notice something out of the ordinary. You can reach California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161.