Introduction
Do you have a loose or damaged tooth? Or have you been developing a lot of gum diseases lately? These might be the signs your teeth are falling out. But don’t worry. You are not the only one facing experiencing this condition. Tooth loss is a lot more common in the US than you think. According to the experts, around 178 million men and women (69% adults) in the US, have lost at least one tooth. Forty million Americans, of which 15% are adults, are missing all their natural teeth.
Now, the question arises- why do teeth falling happen? And what are the early signs your teeth are falling out? If you can detect the early signs of any disease or health condition, you can control and mitigate it timely. Therefore, in this blog we will discuss the early signs of teeth falling out. In addition to this, we will also discuss the preventive measures you must consider to avoid any such condition altogether. So, let’s get started.
What Are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Teeth Falling Out?
Here are a few of the most common causes of tooth loss that many people face at different stages of their lives:
Dental Decay
Dental decay and cavities are a common cause of teeth falling out. Dental cavity is one of the most common oral health issues that people of all ages may face. It occurs when the plaque-trapped bacteria eat away the tooth enamel. Cavities are usually treated with inlays, onlays, or fillings to restore the overall strength, functioning, and tooth structure. However, a root canal is performed if the condition worsens and the tooth cavity or decay becomes untreated due to a deeper infection. In more severe cases, tooth extraction surgery is also performed. If the treatment is ignored for a prolonged period, the decayed tooth falls out on its own.
Dental Trauma or Physical Injury
Any physical injury or dental trauma may lead to tooth loss. Dental emergencies that can occur due to a trip-and-fall accident or severe car crash can cause unpreventable dental trauma. But apart from this, preventable injury can also lead to teeth falling out. For example, playing a contact sport without wearing a mouthguard. People with a habit of teeth grinding, chewing ice, or using teeth as tools to cut thick objects are also likely to cause tooth falls.
Gum Diseases or Periodontitis
Gum diseases are another leading cause of teeth falling out. The development of tartar, bacteria, and plaque on teeth causes inflammation and infection below the gumline. Lack of appropriate and timely treatment of this condition can also affect or destroy the bone supporting the teeth. This leads to the loose tooth or teeth falling out. So, if you have been frequently experiencing gum diseases, don’t ignore it; as it can be one of the signs your teeth are falling out.
Chronic Diseases
Do you know that many chronic diseases or conditions, such as high blood pressure, bone diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and uncontrolled diabetes, can also affect teeth? These conditions can be a leading cause of tooth loss and can also trigger or accelerate gum diseases.
Inappropriate Lifestyle
Having proper nutrition is crucial for your body as well as for your oral health. People who don’t have enough nutrition, vitamins, and minerals required to maintain healthy teeth and gum health tend to develop various dental conditions. Vitamins and minerals that are essential to maintaining healthy teeth include calcium and vitamin D, vitamin A, phosphorus, and vitamin C.
Apart from not having proper nutrients, other lifestyle factors, such as smoking, can also cause teeth to fall out. People who consume tobacco are three times more likely to develop gum diseases than nonsmokers. Due to these gum diseases, you can see the signs your teeth are falling out.
What are the Signs Your Teeth Are Falling Out?
Here are the most evident signs and symptoms you may experience if your teeth are falling out: –
1. Loose Tooth
One of the most prominent signs of teeth falling out is having a loose tooth. If you have a loose tooth, do not ignore it, as it is a sign of trouble. Healthy teeth are supported by the roots resting within sockets in your jawbone. This is how your teeth are securely held in place by a group of complex periodontal tissues and ligaments. Whenever a force or pressure is applied to the teeth, these tissues and ligaments have to compromise. It can happen due to periodontal disease, accidental trauma, erosion of the bone structure, or any other causes. If these conditions are ignored, and proper treatment is not given at the right time, it may lead to tooth loss. If the situation worsens, it may lead to tooth extraction surgery or replacement.
2. Gum Diseases
The development of gum diseases is one of the most common causes and signs your teeth are falling out. Gum diseases are also known as periodontal diseases. In this condition, the tissues and structures that support your natural teeth roots are eroded, leaving them with no support. Apart from loose teeth, people can also experience bleeding in gums, inflammation, or redness in certain areas of the tissue.
3. Untreated damaged tooth
If it is not causing discomfort, we often ignore tooth damage as it doesn’t always look severe. However, one must remember that tooth damage is a progressive condition, which means that it can get worse if you don’t get timely treatment. In severe cases, the damage can also reach the root of the tooth. In this case, it becomes impossible to save or restore the truth. Due to this, people have to go through the pain of truth extraction surgery or replacement.
4. Toothache and Sensitivity
Yes, sensitivity or persistent pain in the tooth while eating or drinking any hot and cold substance can also be a sign of trouble with your teeth. Tooth sensitivity occurs due to an underlying cause or condition. After assessing the underlying cause, proper treatment like fillings, extractions, or root canals is provided to the individual to preserve their dental health.
5. Unpleasant Breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, indicates oral health issues that may lead to tooth loss. Unpleasant breath can be caused due to various underlying conditions, such as tooth infection, tooth decay, or gum diseases. Taking care of proper oral hygiene with brushing, tongue cleaning, and flossing can help with bad breath, but it will not go away completely, until the underlying condition is treated. Therefore, it is important to visit your dentist for an examination or proper cleaning. It will help you detect the potential cause of the unpleasant breath and prevent the affected tooth.
Teeth Falling Out – What Should I Do?
One of the most common misconceptions people have about tooth loss is that tooth loss is inevitable, and everyone loses teeth as they get older. Another misconception is, it will never happen to us. But the truth is that in many cases, tooth loss occurs due to some kind of underlying and preventable oral health condition. Hence, it allows you to prevent tooth loss by identifying certain risk factors. Ensure that you take proper care of your dental health to prevent any signs your teeth are falling out. However, if you notice any of the signs we have discussed above, consult with your dentist.
Tips to Avoid Tooth Falling Out
Prevention is always better than cure. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to avoid tooth decay or infections that can lead to tooth loss. Here are a few useful tips that you can follow to maintain your oral hygiene and keep your teeth healthy:
- Brushing your teeth regularly
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it is necessary to brush your teeth twice a day. Regular flossing is also recommended to remove the food particles stuck in the teeth and maintain good oral hygiene.
- Regular visits to the dentist
Every year, at least two visits to your dentist are recommended by ADA where they will clean your teeth with fluoride solution. Regular cleaning of your teeth will help prevent cavities that can cause tooth decay.
- Avoid Tobacco
Nicotine in tobacco products stains your teeth and produces gum diseases. These diseases often lead to tooth loss. Hence, you can easily protect your teeth by avoiding tobacco products. If you cannot avoid tobacco completely, consult with your doctor for a prescription or over-the-counter products.
- Change in diet
Sugary drinks and food that have starch are not good for your teeth. These substances may lead to cavities or tooth decay. Hence, eliminating very sugary or starchy food products or reducing the consumption and brushing your teeth after eating such food products, will help you maintain healthy teeth for a longer period.
- Mouthwash with fluoride
Regularly rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash containing fluoride helps prevent teeth conditions like cavities and strengthens the teeth enamel.
Conclusion
Following healthy oral habits and recognizing the early signs your teeth are falling out is crucial to preserving your dental health. A few of the key indicators of teeth falling out are toothache, tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, gum recession, etc. Apart from these, bad breath is also a major sign of underlying dental conditions. Addressing these issues early by seeking professional care and following good oral hygiene can potentially save your teeth and help you maintain a healthy and confident smile.
