Island Dental blog

Common Causes of Tooth Loss

June 7, 2022

Tooth loss is a self-esteem issue for some people, but missing teeth can also cause health problems. Fortunately, dental implants like All-on-4® in Marco Island can restore that full smile with a single visit to the dentist.

patient needing All-on-4 in Marco Island

What Can Cause Tooth Loss?

Gum Infections

Severe gum infections are the first culprit behind tooth loss. Severe gingival inflammation, or periodontitis, forces the gums to retreat from the teeth. Unfortunately, this leaves open gaps that oral bacteria can exploit. The worsening infection can lead to progressive tooth decay. If left unaddressed, the infection can gnaw at the bones supporting the teeth’s base. It will loosen affected teeth and require tooth extraction.

Blunt Trauma

A direct force applied to the jaws can dislodge teeth from their sockets. There are various events in which this could happen. People who pursue contact sports like karate, boxing, and football are at risk of losing teeth to blunt trauma. On the other hand, individuals with dental malocclusion could bite too hard on food and exert enough pressure to break teeth.

It’s essential to visit a dental professional within an hour of losing a tooth in either case.

Sleep Apnea

This sleeping disorder contributes directly to tooth loss. Most people suffering from obstructive sleep apnea grind their teeth during sleep. Like forceful chewing, grinding can also weaken teeth and trigger gum recession. Both of these can lead to cavities, gingivitis and periodontitis.  

Aside from tooth grinding, sleep apnea patients also suffer from dry mouth. This is a condition where the mouth does not produce enough saliva to remove food particles and bacteria. Dry mouth causes a spike in oral bacteria, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

All-on-4 in Marco Island is needed after a tooth extraction

Learn More About All-on-4® in Marco Island

You don’t have to deal with the consequences of missing teeth. Implants like the All-on-4 will restore your complete set of teeth and bring back that winning smile. Contact us for an appointment. These implants can be installed within a single session. for an appointment. These implants can be installed within a single session.

Nobel Biocare, NobelProcera, NobelGuide and All-on-4 are trademarks of the Nobel Biocare group.

Schedule Appointment

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.