Dental implants in Houston are a remarkable treatment. In fact, they’re the next best thing to real teeth. However, it’s always preferable to prevent tooth loss and avoid the need for implants altogether. Let’s discuss why teeth sometimes come out or need to be extracted. Being aware of these factors may help you protect your natural smile and keep it intact for many more years to come.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. In fact, roughly half of people in the United States have some form of this condition. In most cases, the disease is relatively mild; it may be possible to reverse it with good oral hygiene habits. However, if gum disease progresses to its later stages, the bacteria that causes it can eat away at the bone and other tissues that support the teeth. Therefore, the teeth may become loose or fall out altogether. If gum disease has robbed you of one or more of your teeth, it is important that you get your condition treated before you receive Houston dental implants.
Tooth Decay
The majority of adults have had at least one cavity; usually, the tooth decay is mild, and a dentist can repair it with a filling or other restoration. In severe cases of decay, the tooth becomes so badly damaged that it is impossible to save it. Therefore, extraction becomes necessary. Thorough brushing and flossing, along with biannual routine dental visits, can prevent decay from reaching the point where it is irreparable. Eating a healthy diet that contains limited amounts of sugary foods is also essential.
Health Conditions
Some health conditions can have a direct impact on the teeth. For example, poorly managed diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and high blood pressure have all been linked to gum disease. Working with a medical doctor to prevent and/or manage such conditions can go a long way toward protecting your smile’s long-term wellness.
Physical Trauma
When a tooth faces a hard impact, it may become dislodged or badly broken. Sometimes, a dentist can splint the tooth back into place so it can reattach itself to the surrounding tissue. In other cases, salvaging the tooth isn’t possible, and a patient should consider getting a dental implant in Houston to fill in the gap. To prevent this type of tooth loss, you should always wear a mouthguard when playing sports; avoid using your teeth as a tool; and always be aware of any trip hazards that might cause you to fall and hit your face.
Recovering from Tooth Loss
Hopefully, you can hold onto your natural teeth for a lifetime. However, if you have lost a tooth (or multiple teeth) due to any of the above factors, you should seek treatment to rebuild your smile as soon as possible. A Houston dental implant can fill in the gap and prevent future oral health problems. Hopefully, it won’t be long before you once again have a complete set of teeth!
About the Author
Dr. Steve L. Koo is an experienced oral surgeon who has special expertise in the field of dental implants. He and his colleague, Dr. Tom Weil, handle each case with precision and care. To learn more about your tooth replacement options, contact the Piney Point Dental Implant Center team at 713-597-7340.