There’s a lot of information out there about tooth loss, but much of it is false, such as the fact that it occurs naturally as you age. The truth is that tooth loss is more common than it should be, and with the right care and maintenance, patients can often prevent the most common causes behind it. Today, we take a look at a few things that might surprise you about tooth loss, including how it can lead to more serious oral health issues if not addressed properly.
It Isn’t Necessarily Natural
Tooth loss tends to occur more frequently in older patients, but that’s because the most common cause of tooth loss (gum disease) becomes more serious over time. If you don’t have gum disease (or any other progressive oral health condition) and you never suffer accidental trauma, then you have an excellent chance at avoiding tooth loss for life.
It Affects the Rest of Your Teeth
When you do lose a tooth, the best thing you can is replace it, and not just for the sake of your smile’s appearance. The remaining teeth still have to sustain your bite’s pressure and they may shift toward the gap to try and compensate for the empty space. This can leave your teeth more vulnerable to damage from bite pressure, decay from oral bacteria, and more.
It Also Affects Your Other Oral Structures
That’s just the visible parts of your teeth; the loss of your teeth roots has deeper implications. For example, teeth roots stimulate your jawbone, which promotes the flow of nutrients that it relies on to stay healthy and support your teeth. Losing teeth roots interrupts this flow, causing your body to send fewer nutrients and leading to a weaker jawbone.
Learn How You Can Prevent Tooth Loss
The most surprising fact about tooth loss is often how easily it can be prevented with the right care and maintenance. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling the Sunny Smiles dental office nearest you in El Paso, TX, today! We have offices in the East, Northeast, and Westside of El Paso, and happily welcome patients from all nearby communities, including Chaparral, Canutillo, Vinton, and Sunland Park, New Mexico.