Dentures are the tried-and-true method for rebuilding your grin after tooth loss because they can simultaneously restore your abilities and appearance. With them in place, eating, speaking, and smiling authentically is much easier.
Many patients assume these prosthetics are reserved for seniors because tooth loss affects older adults more frequently. However, younger people might lose their permanent teeth and require replacements for several reasons. Continue reading to learn about 3 factors that can contribute to tooth loss regardless of your age!
Issue #1: Gum Disease
Did you know that periodontal problems are the number one leading cause of tooth loss? This common condition affects nearly half (47%) of American adults who are 30 years or older. If bacteria in your mouth build plaque along your gumlines, it can harden into tartar and spread beneath the surface.
From there, they can penetrate your connective tissues, and the ensuing infection eventually causes them to recede from your enamel. Not only is your body less able to deliver essential nutrients and disease-fighting cells to your mouth, but your teeth are also left without the firm foundation they need to remain in place. They can become loose or fall out altogether.
Issue #2: Poor Nutrition
Your diet also significantly impacts your dental health; the foods you eat can either support your smile or detract from it. For instance, overly sugary foods attract bacteria that contribute to cavities and gum disease. Also, hard foods like candy and ice can chip, crack, or break your teeth when you bit into them. Once the structure is compromised, you’re more likely to develop an infection inside the tender pulp, which can spread to your gums and jawbone if left unaddressed. Your teeth can fall out if the surrounding tissues start eroding.
Meanwhile, foods high in calcium, like milk, yogurt, and cheese, can support strong teeth and bones. You can also increase your consumption of citrus fruits and leafy greens to get more vitamin C for healthy gums.
Issue #3: Physical Trauma
As any athlete can tell you, participating in team sports or high-contact activities puts your grin at risk. A single blow to the face can exert enough pressure on your pearly whites to break or knock them out entirely.
Your dentist can provide a custom-fitted mouth guard to create a layer of cushion over your teeth. This malleable material can safeguard your smile from possible harm during athletic events. However, there’s no guarantee that you won’t experience an emergency that results in missing teeth.
As you can see, tooth loss can affect people at any age, but your provider can restore your grin with customized dentures made just for you!
Meet the Author
Dr. Biju Cyriac has 30+ years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He initially earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at Mysore University in India, and then moved to the U.S. and completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the New York University College of Dentistry. Now, he’s a member of several trusted organizations, including the American Dental Association, so you know that you’re in good hands. He combines art with modern technology to provide customized restorations made to look just like your missing teeth. You can request an appointment on the website or call (717) 741-0893.