As a child, you may recall the excitement of losing your baby tooth and leaving it under the pillow for the Tooth Fairy. Unfortunately, the next set of teeth are not replaced by another set, making it important that these permanent teeth are NOT lost! That is why dental provides such as the team at McDowell Dental Group educate patients on good oral hygiene, as a lost tooth as an adult is a permanent problem. Many patients ask why adult teeth might be lost.
- Periodontal disease – the most common reason for the loss of teeth is due to periodontal disease. Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that starts in the gum tissue and progresses if it is not diagnosed and treated in the earliest stages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that at least half of American adults ages 30 and up have periodontal disease, making it one of the most widespread chronic diseases in the United States. With this in mind, it is important that patients take good care of their oral health to maintain bone and teeth.
- Pregnancy – during pregnancy, many women experience hormonal changes that can impact more than just their mood. It can also make women susceptible to loose teeth. Hormone shifts contribute to changes in the periodontium, which include the ligaments and bones that hold teeth in place. Teeth can become loose if hormone fluctuations are severe.
- Injury/trauma – car accidents and sports are two common activities that can contribute to a blow in the face or mouth that can damage the teeth. Teeth might become chipped or cracked, or in some cases, get knocked out completely in a situation known as dental avulsion. An emergency dentist should be reached in an attempt to reattach the tooth, if possible.
Request an appointment today
The McDowell Dental Group can meet and exceed all of a patient’s needs with our line of services available for new and current patients. Learn more about all we have to offer by calling our facility at (212) 885-0555 to schedule a consultation if you reside in the area of Abington, PA. We are conveniently located at 1047 Old York Road and accept new patients and families of the community.