Adult Tooth Loss Is Common: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options 

Losing a tooth as an adult can be alarming, but it’s more common than you might realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults over age 30 show signs of gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss.

But it doesn’t have to happen to you. Our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry is here to protect your smile. Below, Aditi Saxena, DDS, our expert dentist, can help you understand why tooth loss happens and how to prevent it. 

Common causes of adult tooth loss

The most frequent cause of adult tooth loss is periodontal (gum) disease, an infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and certain health conditions like diabetes increase your risk. Other contributors include:

Tooth decay

Untreated cavities can destroy your tooth structure and lead to extraction.

Trauma or injury

Sports accidents, falls, or biting down on hard objects can knock out or fracture a tooth.

Bruxism (teeth grinding)

Chronic grinding wears down enamel and weakens your teeth over time.

Poorly fitting dental work

Ill-fitting crowns or bridges can trap bacteria and promote decay.

Prevention tips for a healthy smile

The best way to avoid tooth loss is to stay proactive about your oral health. Simple daily habits and regular dental visits at Austin Advanced Dentistry make a big difference.

We recommend the following:

• Brush and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent gum disease
• Visit our practice twice a year for cleanings and checkups
• Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients that strengthen your teeth and gums
• Protect your teeth by wearing a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth at night
• Quit smoking, as it significantly raises the risk of gum disease and slows healing

When you follow these steps consistently, you can greatly reduce your risk of tooth loss and keep your smile strong and healthy for years to come. We also offer periodontal maintenance appointments to monitor your gum health.

Treatment options after tooth loss

If you lose a tooth, several effective treatments can restore both function and appearance. 

Dental implants are a popular option, where we place a titanium post in your jawbone to support a lifelike crown, providing a permanent and natural-looking solution. In addition, you may be a candidate for mini-dental implants.

Another choice is a dental bridge, which uses neighboring teeth to anchor a prosthetic tooth and fill the gap. 

If you’re seeking a removable solution, partial dentures can replace one or more missing teeth and help maintain a balanced, healthy smile.

How to get in touch with our dental team

Adult tooth loss is common, but it’s not inevitable. With good oral hygiene, routine teeth cleanings, and timely treatment, you can maintain a healthy, confident smile well into the future. We’re here to provide guidance and promote good oral health for your lifetime.

Book a checkup with us today for an oral health evaluation at our office in Austin, Texas.