The Most Common Reason for Tooth Loss
Gum disease is the most frequent cause of missing teeth. Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing and loose teeth are the signs of this infection. In some cases, these symptoms are not present until the problem is severe. When treatment begins in the earlier stages, there are nonsurgical methods to stop the infection. If you wait too long for treatment, surgery may be necessary.
Gum Disease Can Have an Effect on Your Overall Health
Infection in gum tissue can contribute to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke. Recent medical studies have indicated this connection between gum disease and several life-threatening health problems. The bacteria in the gums travel to other vital organs and can have an effect on the quality of your health.
Equally important is the statistic provided by The American Dental Association that nearly 80% of the American population suffers from gum disease. Dentists are very concerned about the connection between periodontal (gum) disease and overall health. They recognize the high percentage of people with this problem as a national epidemic.
The American Academy of Periodontology reports that “studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.”
Alternative Approaches to Halting Gum Disease
Gum surgery can control periodontal disease, but there are other methods that are easier and can stop the problem. With improved hygiene, nonsurgical methods can be very effective. But if the problem is too advanced, surgery may be necessary. Both approaches are often covered by dental insurance plans.
Losing a Tooth Can Cause Complications
Missing even one tooth can have an effect on your chewing abilities. The more teeth you have missing, the less nutrition you will receive from your food. Chewing more natural, nutritious foods often becomes difficult with too many missing teeth, and often softer, higher-calorie foods are then consumed more often. This type of diet usually results in weight gain.
Your facial appearance can change, taking on a hollowed-out look that adds years to your actual age. Your speech may not always be clear, causing moments of embarrassment at work or in your social life.
Gaps in your dental arches can also cause other teeth to start to become loose or move. But whether you’re missing teeth in the front or back, whether there is only one or many absent, the best replacements are dental implants. They look very natural and function like real teeth, allowing you to enjoy every type of food that you like.
