Adult Tooth Loss: Prevention and Replacement Options

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, more than a third of Americans experience adult tooth loss. Sadly, most of these losses could have been prevented. Nonetheless, once adult tooth loss has occurred, it’s vital to replace missing teeth or else you could risk doing further damage to your dental health.

Common Causes of Tooth Loss:

• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Traumatic injury
• Oral cancer

Preventing Adult Tooth Loss

Unfortunately, missing adult teeth do not grow back, which is why you must be diligent in your dental hygiene. Optimal dental care includes brushing and flossing thoroughly after every meal in addition to regular visits to your dentist. No matter how well you brush, there’s no substitute for a professional cleaning every six months. Keeping your teeth and gums free of plaque and calculus will lower your risk of future periodontal bone loss. Smoking is also a risk factor for tooth loss, which is yet another reason for smokers to give up tobacco. Here is a link to Tobacco Free Florida in case you want to quit.

Why is Dental Restoration so Important?

Gaps in your teeth leave your gums more susceptible to disease. Your remaining teeth depend upon each other to hold their position.  Missing teeth will allow crowding to fill the empty spaces resulting in collapse of your proper bite.  Restoring missing teeth improves your chances of keeping the teeth you have. You may also have an easier time chewing and talking.

Adult Tooth Loss Replacement Options

Partial dentures and bridges were the standard treatment for tooth loss for decades. A bridge is a prosthesis with crowns on each side that attaches to surrounding healthy teeth to fill in gaps. Dentures are artificial teeth that sit upon the gums. Both of these options are effective, yet they can sometimes move around in your mouth. Dentures must also be taken out for cleaning.

Dental implants are a newer option that is ideal for replacing single or several teeth. Implants are anchored to the gum line by a titanium post made from a biocompatible material that naturally fuses with the jawbone, which permanently holds the prosthesis in place. Dental implants look more realistic and require no extra maintenance.

Adult Tooth Loss Prevention and Replacement in Orlando

If you’re one of the thousands of Floridians missing a tooth or two, a cosmetic dentist can restore your mouth to its original glory. In Orlando, Wekiva Dental is your best option. Dr. Mark Offenback uses the newest technologies to leave our patients feeling comfortable and confident. If you have one or more teeth missing, please call us today at 407-869-7333 for a consultation.  Dr. Offenback will discuss the options available for you and help you develop a dental plan back to oral health.