Let’s face it: tooth loss is inescapable. Yes, you may have taken good care of them, but teeth can be lost. For example, you may recall having a milk tooth fall out on its own as a child. Aside from age, trauma, illness, starvation, and infection can cause tooth loss.

To improve your overall oral health, you must address all contributing factors to tooth loss. Here you can see what causes it and why you’ll need a Queen Creek dentist’s help.

How Teeth Grow

Odontogenesis is the complex process of tooth development, and it is believed humans are born with all their teeth.

The first set is called “milk teeth.” The incisors, or flat-edged front teeth, grow from 5 to 8 months. Canines (the eating teeth separating premolars) and incisors arrive at 1 year and 4 months. By age 3, they should have premolars and other teeth.

Baby teeth fall out at age 6. For the second set of permanent teeth, the roots of these teeth eventually dissolve. Then come canines, premolars, and molars, followed by incisors (up and down).

Other permanent teeth erupt by 14, and wisdom teeth grow at strange angles, needing a Queen Creek family dentist’s help.

Teeth Loss and What Causes It

Permanent teeth cannot be replaced once lost. This is because your teeth have been subjected to forces such as grinding, chewing, and even trauma. 

Several oral issues might cause permanent tooth loss. The good news is that oral illnesses can be avoided.

Cavities

Also known as tooth decay, it occurs when bacteria and acid build up on your teeth (from plaque build-up). This can impact the enamel and the dentin.

Plaque build-up is the leading cause of cavities, as this sugary layer attracts germs and bacteria that feed on it and produces toxic acids that eat away at our enamel. 

The toxic acids produced by bacteria cause holes in the teeth, exposing the dentin and possibly harming the roots. In addition, adjacent teeth can be damaged, causing decay or extraction by your Queen Creek dentist.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a minor form of periodontitis. The gums become red, irritated, and bleed readily because of plaque and bacteria build-up. Humans suffer from gingivitis the most, caused by inadequate dental hygiene. 

Gingivitis can be reversed with the help of an affordable Queen Creek dentist who can advise on home treatments and regular visits. 

Aside from poor dental hygiene, gingivitis can be caused by:

• Age: Gingivitis risk increases with age, related to hormonal changes throughout puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or even a menstrual cycle.
• Smokers are more susceptible to the disease.
• Poor diet and malnutrition are linked to this mouth issue. Vitamin C insufficiency is one example.
• Drugs: Some drugs can slow gum tissue growth.
• Infection-inhibiting chronic diseases includes diabetes, cancer, and HIV.

Gingivitis left untreated can develop into periodontitis, a far more dangerous condition.

Severe periodontitis infects the surfaces below the gumline. Plaque accumulation worsens gum recession. Gingival recession increases the risk of infection at the tooth root.

Gingival recession exposes a tooth’s root, causing it to loosen and fall out. It can also help pockets grow between teeth and gums. Toxins, tartar, and bacteria build-up promote gum and tooth decay, leading to additional infections.

Where To Get Help From Queen Creek Dentist

If you are worried about tooth loss, it isn’t too hard to find a suitable dentist who can help with the above and more.

To learn more, Contact Martin Dental for expert dental care. Alternatively, you can fill in the quick form for a fast response from the team.

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