Over 100 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and over 30 million are missing all their teeth. It goes without saying that your teeth are essential for chewing, speaking properly, and your self-confidence. When taken care of them properly, your teeth can last you a lifetime. So what would cause someone to lose a permanent tooth? The following are the top causes of tooth loss you should know about.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is one of the top causes of tooth loss in adults [1]. In gum disease, plaque, bacteria, and tartar lead to an infection that can cause gum tissue to recede from your teeth. In more severe cases, it can even cause loss of alveolar bone, the bone that helps anchor your teeth in place. As a result, advanced gum disease can lead to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
Tooth Decay
Although cavities start out small, without treatment, they can progress to compromise your entire tooth. Tooth decay is a major cause of tooth loss [2]. When the cavity gets large enough that the tooth can’t be repaired with a filling, root canal, or even a dental crown, sometimes extraction is the only option. Those regular dental visits can help catch cavities early so you won’t have to consider extraction for an affected tooth.
Poor Diet
Your teeth need nutrients to stay strong, including calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and vitamin C to name a few. A diet lacking in nutrient-rich foods has been shown to be a factor in tooth loss [3]. Eating a healthy diet can support a healthy smile, so focus on whole foods and ensure your diet includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to keep your pearly whites strong and beautiful!
Trauma to the Teeth
Sometimes even the healthiest teeth are subject to damage that would require an extraction. Injuries to the teeth, such as from sports impacts or even a car accident or fall, can cause tooth loss. In many cases, the teeth can be repaired after such trauma. Doing your part to prevent damage—such as wearing a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth—can help keep your smile safe and prevent tooth loss.
Not Keeping Up With Oral Hygiene
Daily brushing and flossing are necessary to keep your teeth healthy. Not keeping up with your oral hygiene can lead to conditions such as gum disease and tooth decay, which, as we’ve seen, are two of the biggest causes of tooth loss [4]. You can prevent tooth loss simply by brushing, flossing, eating healthy, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups.
Alcohol Consumption and Smoking
Drinking alcohol and smoking are two vices that have been shown to have a negative impact on both your body and your oral health. People who smoke or drink alcohol frequently are more at risk to have gum disease [5]. In addition, smoking may even hinder the symptoms of gum disease, meaning you may not realize something is wrong with your smile until it’s too late.
You Can Prevent Tooth Loss
The good news is that tooth loss is preventable in the vast majority of cases. Preventing tooth loss can be as simple as keeping up with your oral hygiene and your regular dental visits. And remember that if you’re missing a natural tooth, replacing it is essential to the continued health of your smile.
Sources:
1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/tooth-loss-truth-its-no-longer-about-the-tooth-
fairy-202108252578
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31329623/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8187263/
4. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/index.html
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5535480/
