Reasons Why People Are Missing Teeth

It is important for people to take steps to take care of their oral health. One of the most common issues that people might face with regard to their oral health has to do with missing teeth. The good news is that there are options when it comes to replacing missing teeth. While many people have heard of bridges, flippers, and dentures, implants in clinical dentistry can also help those who might have lost one or more teeth. It is important for people to be familiar with the reasons why they might be missing a tooth.

Teeth Missing From Birth

One of the most common reasons why people end up requiring an implant is that they have a tooth that has been missing from birth. Usually, this is referred to as a tooth that is missing congenitally, meaning they were born without it. This does not mean that the missing tooth is “genetic.” It is important to distinguish between congenital and acquired forms of tooth loss.

First, this can impact the viability of using implants to replace missing teeth. Second, if someone is missing a tooth from birth, they might be able to convince the insurance company that the implant is not cosmetic. In this case, the insurance company might be willing to pay for the cost of the dental implant.

Tooth Loss That Is Acquired

The other form of tooth loss is called acquired. This means that people were born with all of their teeth but lost one or more of them along the way. For example, someone might lose a tooth playing sports when they take a blow to the mouth, as in hockey. In other cases, someone might be involved in a physical assault and lose one or more teeth this way.

Finally, other people might have a dental disease that causes them to lose their teeth, such as dental decay. When someone comes to the dentist to learn about the possibility of a dental implant, the dentist is going to take a look at the state of the jaw. The jaw has to be able to support the implant once it is put in place. This might involve dental x-rays.

Consider A Dental Implant

For those who are missing one or more teeth, dental implants might be a comprehensive treatment option. It is important for everyone to learn about dental implants, their benefits, and possible risks.