Dentist in Indianapolis answers questions about tooth loss and dental implants

If you are considering a restorative dental treatment for missing teeth, you may have the following questions: What causes tooth loss? What procedures are available to treat it? If I seek treatment, how do I maintain the restoration?

Dr. Matthew Church of Washington Street Dentistry, in Indianapolis, answers your questions.

Three causes of tooth loss

Tooth trauma, congenital absence, and gum disease are common reasons patients seek treatment for missing teeth. A blow to the face or falling off a bicycle could be detrimental to your oral health. If a tooth experienced severe damage, extraction may be recommended. If you lost a tooth, you may need a dental implant. Either way, call us immediately. Eventually, baby teeth fall out. In some cases, a permanent tooth never succeeds the baby tooth. It is important to address the gap to prevent future dental conditions. Gum disease is an infection of soft tissues, connective tissues, and bone surrounding and supporting teeth. It leads as the most common reason for tooth loss. Swollen, red, tender gums are signs of the disease. Receding gum line, loose teeth, and bad breath are other symptoms. If your gums bleed when brushing your teeth or flossing, it is time to seek treatment.

Three treatments for tooth loss

Dentures, bridges, and dental implants are treatments available for replacing missing teeth.

Dentures are removable teeth and tissue replacements. There are partial and complete types. Full dentures can last up to 10 to15 years.

Bridges include artificial teeth that replace missing ones. The doctor cosmetically bonds these to adjacent teeth. Bridges can last up to 20 years with good oral hygiene.

Dental implants are titanium rods surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, bone fuses to the implant. The dentist then places abutments and attaches artificial teeth to restore the smile. These restorations reign as the longest lasting type for missing teeth. These can last a lifetime, when you follow the proper aftercare guidance.

Three ways to maintain longevity of a restoration

A good oral health regimen helps maximize the longevity of any dental restoration. This includes:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
• Visiting the dentist at least bi-annually.
• Minimizing amount of sugary foods in your diet.

Do you have more questions about treating tooth loss? We would be happy to answer them. Call (317) 333-6788 .

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