Get Answers to Questions About Tooth Loss

One of the most distressing things about tooth loss is uncertainty. You may not be sure how your dental health got so bad, or what you should do next to prevent your dental health from getting worse. You might also worry how the lost tooth will affect your smile, and therefore, your confidence. Knowing the answers to these questions can help you be better prepared to deal with tooth loss if it occurs, or if it already has and you need to choose an appropriate replacement.

Why did I lose a tooth?

There are many different reasons why you may have lost a tooth. For instance, it may have been knocked out due to accidental trauma, or it may have lost all of its support due to severe gum disease. Knowing why you lost your tooth is vital to choosing the right replacement. If it happened because of an underlying condition (like gum disease), then that condition will have to be addressed before you can replace the tooth.

What if I just ignore it?

Ignoring a lost tooth is never a good idea. Even if the space in your smile isn’t noticeable, the loss will have a resounding impact on the rest of your oral health. Remaining teeth can shift out of place, your bite will be thrown off balance, your jaw muscles and joints can become damaged, and you may lose more teeth as your jawbone grows weaker.

What’s my best option for replacing it?

Because many of the consequences of tooth loss involve the loss of your tooth’s root, the best replacement option is usually a dental implant and crown. A dental implant is a small posts made from biocompatible titanium, which your jawbone fuses to as it heals following implant placement. The post supports a lifelike crown the same way roots support your healthy teeth, and it also preserves the flow of nutrients to your jawbone to prevent it from losing mass and density.

Learn About Tooth Loss and Prosthetic Dentistry

Tooth loss is still common for many adults, but it’s less of a drag on their quality of life thanks to modern, lifelike dental prosthetics. To learn more, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Dr. Newman’s office today at 520-296-5439. We’re conveniently located inside the Grant Road Professional Plaza in Tucson, AZ, and proudly welcome the residents of all surrounding communities.