Tooth Loss
Bellevue, WA
 Millions of people around the globe experience tooth loss at some point in their lives. While there are many factors that can cause tooth loss, fortunately, there are some great tooth replacement options as well.
Causes of Tooth Loss
Here are some of the top causes of tooth loss:
Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. Periodontal disease occurs as a result of lack of proper dental hygiene. It starts with bacteria and inflammation in the gums and progresses on to destroying gum tissue and the jawbone, causing loss of tooth support.
Cavities
Cavities are holes in the teeth that are caused by a bacterial infection turned into tooth decay. When left untreated for too long, cavities can damage the pulp in the center of the tooth. To counter this, you will either need to get a root canal or remove your tooth altogether.
Physical Injury or Trauma
Accidents can happen anywhere at any time. Car accidents, trips and falls, sports, and many other incidents and activities can cause tooth loss.
Other Diseases and Risk Factors
Apart from oral disease, there are many other diseases and risk factors that can also cause tooth loss. Some of these diseases and risk factors include:| • |
Hypertension
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Diabetes
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Arthritis
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Poor nutrition
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Smoking |
Best Tooth Replacement Options
Fortunately, there are many effective tooth replacement options in case you suffer from tooth loss.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most effective and durable tooth replacement option. An implant is a metal post that is designed to artificially replace a tooth root in the jawbone to support a replacement crown, denture, or bridge. This is the most suitable treatment for those missing one or more teeth due to gum disease, injury, or any other oral health concern. Not only do implants provide a long-term solution for tooth loss, but they also provide the best results in terms of aesthetics. Moreover, an implant also helps preserve the jawbone and gum tissue, preventing you from suffering from further tooth loss.
Bridge
There are two main types of dental bridges: implant-supported bridge and tooth-supported bridge. If you have multiple missing teeth in a row, getting a single implant for each tooth can be a very lengthy process. In such cases, an implant-supported bridge is the best solution. An implant-supported bridge only secures the two end teeth with implants whereas the middle teeth are held in place without any abutments. A tooth-supported bridge, on the other hand, uses your natural teeth to support a bridge rather than placing implants.
Removable Partial Dentures
Dentures are one of the most popular tooth replacement options. The reason behind this is that removable partial dentures are a much simpler alternative to replacing missing teeth. Removable partial dentures are best suited for those individuals with a few missing teeth who do not want to get a permanent tooth replacement.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are looking for a dentist or a prosthodontist to get dental implants or any other tooth replacement, call us at (425) 558-9998 to book an appointment at our clinic A Smiling Heart Dentistry.
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