Tooth loss isn’t an obscure oral health concern. Most people are aware that it’s a concern, and for the most part, understand what it could mean for their smiles if it occurs. However, there are plenty of things about tooth loss that people don’t fully understand, or are mistaken about, including how it occurs, how it can be prevented, and how it can be successfully addressed with a lifelike dental implant restoration.
The path to losing a tooth
The causes of tooth loss are often the most misunderstood aspects of the condition. For example, some people may believe tooth loss is a natural result of aging, while others might think tooth loss is a hereditary condition. The truth, though, is that tooth loss is typically the result of an underlying condition that’s specific to each patient’s oral health. This may be a severe tooth infection, accidental trauma, malformation of certain oral structures, or more. Most often, however, tooth loss occurs due to the severe progression of periodontal disease (also known as gum disease).
The preventive measures that work best
Since many people mistake the causes of tooth loss, the fact that it can be prevented is often a surprise. Yet, because most instances of tooth loss occur from an underlying oral health condition, preventing or controlling any oral health concern that develops can help you avoid losing one or more teeth to it. For most oral health problems, prevention can be achieved with a consistently good routine of dental hygiene and preventive oral health care. If a problem does develop, such as periodontal disease, then treating and controlling it can mitigate any damage it causes that could lead to tooth loss.
The most effective solutions for tooth loss
For people who do experience tooth loss, the cause may not be as mysterious anymore. However, many people who lose one or more teeth can still be mistaken about their options for replacing them, or their chances of fully restoring and preserving their oral health. For example, after losing teeth, the chances of losing more will be higher, due largely to the loss of the tooth’s root. By replacing the root with a dental implant post and the crown of the tooth with a custom restoration, you can help stop the consequences of tooth loss that could negatively impact your oral health in the future.
Learn more about tooth loss and oral health
Tooth loss can be a great concern, but by preventing or dealing with it correctly, it doesn’t have to significantly threaten your oral health. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, call Santa Rosa Oral Surgery in Santa Rosa, CA, today at 707-545-4625.
