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Tooth Loss in Jacksonville, FL Tooth loss can be a distressing experience that can affect both your smile and your overall health. You may lose a tooth due to an accident, a medical condition, or gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is a primary way of ensuring good healthy teeth. Due to advancements in dental technology, it is now easier to prevent and treat tooth loss. Causes of Tooth LossHere are some of the leading causes of tooth loss: Gum DiseaseThis is one of the most common reasons behind a missing tooth. It begins when a film of plaque forms over your teeth due to bad oral hygiene. Plaque may soon harden into tartar, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. As gum disease intensifies, it destroys gum tissue. Serious cases of periodontal disease may even result in damage to the jawbone beneath the gums, which implies loss of support to the teeth. CavitiesCavities are holes in the teeth which are formed when bacteria cause tooth decay. If not treated in a timely manner, a cavity may destroy the pulp in the tooth center. In this case, a root canal or tooth removal may be necessary. Physical InjuryAn accident may cause a tooth to break or fall out. This is why mouthguards are recommended while playing sports. Make sure you do not use your teeth to remove caps, loosen knots, or cut threads. Also avoid chewing on open nut shells, popcorn kernels, or ice. Tooth Loss TreatmentsYou can choose to get a lost tooth replaced in several ways. Here are some of the major treatment options: Dental ImplantsDental implants help replace one or more teeth inside of the mouth. The process typically involves inserting a titanium metal post inside your upper or lower jaw. In case your jawbone is unable to support an implant, your dentist may surgically strengthen it using a bone or bone-like material. An artificial tooth is then fixed over the implant to make it function just like your natural tooth. BridgesBridges are a viable tooth replacement option when you are missing a tooth or two in the same area of your mouth. Bridges look just like your natural teeth and are generally less expensive than dental implants. They fill in the gap left by a missing tooth with a dental prosthetic or artificial tooth. The prosthetic is fixed to the adjacent teeth and dental cement helps hold it in place. DenturesIf all of your teeth need to be replaced, your dentist may suggest dentures. Replacement teeth are attached to a pink, natural-looking base to make dentures. The base is made to coordinate with the color of your gums, while the replacement teeth are created to match your original teeth. Dentures provide a natural feel and are easy on your pocket. They can also be replaced and repaired easily as compared to other tooth replacement options. Dental implants, bridges and dentures are all effective tooth replacement options. If you are missing a tooth or two, schedule an appointment with us at Atlantic Dentistry by calling us at 904 717-0335 today. |
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