Tooth loss and its causes
Tooth loss can affect people from all age groups and sexes, and it is only not pathological in children between the ages of 6 and 13, when their milk teeth are progressively replaced by permanent teeth. Tooth loss can be a devastating condition that can not only negatively impact basic abilities like speaking or eating, but also have a negative effect on your mental health and wellbeing as well. Tooth loss is primarily caused by three different factors: advanced tooth decay, advanced gum disease and traumatic injury. Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by certain microorganisms that occur naturally in our oral cavity and are part of our microbiome. Some of these species can quickly reproduce and overgrow in the constant presence of relatively large amounts of sugar, possibly due to poor oral hygiene. The bacteria can cause tooth decay through producing acids, which degrade the minerals present in the teeth. They can also cause gum disease by triggering chronic inflammation in the gum tissue, which can lead to permanent damage if left untreated. If you are thinking of getting dental implants in Maidstone, these are a very popular method of tooth replacement.
How to prevent tooth loss
To prevent tooth loss it is important to understand what causes it. As it was mentioned above, one of the main risk factors associated with tooth loss is tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by oral microbial overgrowth as a result of poor oral hygiene and excessive dietary sugar consumption. Tooth decay only causes tooth loss if the decay causing bacteria reach the living part of the tooth, the innermost pulp tissue, and infect it. To prevent tooth decay, practise a good oral hygiene routine: brush your teeth twice a day, use dental floss and an antibacterial mouthwash. This should also help in preventing gum disease, as this is caused by similar factors. To prevent the traumatic injury of the teeth, wear a mouthguard when engaging in risky contact sports, such as rugby or martial arts.
What are dental implants and how do they work?
Dental implants are small metal appliances, which are made out of a special metal called titanium. This metal has special properties with regards to surgical implants, as this metal is not rejected by the immune system and is instead allowed to integrate into the body’s own tissues. This makes the use of dental implants possible, as – assuming appropriate osseointegration – titanium implants can be just as strong, durable and resilient as natural teeth. When you get dental implants your dentist will initially check if you need treatment for any pre-existing gum disease. Once you have been considered fit for the operation, the dental implants will be surgically introduced into your jawbone. After a healing process – normally lasting for a few months – the dental implants are ready for the replacement crowns’ attachment to them. Dental implants can be very durable and can last for a lifetime assuming appropriate care and maintenance. If you are interested in getting dental implants in Maidstone, do not hesitate to get in touch with your local dentist and book an appointment for a consultation session today!
