Are you missing one or multiple teeth? Are you looking for high-quality restorative dental solutions? Dr. Glen Wainwright and his dental team offer dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures to patients in Austin, Texas. Filling the gaps in your smile offers multiple benefits. Patients who receive restorative treatments are able to maintain their facial structure and the function of their teeth. But what causes missing teeth in the first place, and how can you restore missing teeth?
Causes of Missing Teeth
While some causes of missing teeth are out of our control, there are also preventable causes that can lead to tooth loss. There are many causes of missing teeth that you should be aware of. You can lose teeth due to any of the following:
- Injury or trauma to the mouth
- Tooth decay
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Genetics
- Certain medical conditions
- Temporomandibular joint disorders
If you have any of these conditions or already have one or more lost or missing teeth, call 512-518-6392. Dr. Wainwright and his team at Austin Dental Care are passionate about finding the right dental solutions for patients. They collaborate with patients through every step of the treatment process for effective dental care.
Poor Oral Hygiene and Gum Disease
Poor oral hygiene is perhaps the most common cause of missing teeth, as it can lead to tooth loss due to oral health problems like gum disease. Tooth decay, which is due to bacteria in plaque on teeth and gums that eat through tooth enamel, can result in cavities and eventually tooth loss. Additionally, periodontitis is an infection of the gums and bone surrounding your teeth that often follows from poor oral hygiene practices such as smoking or chewing tobacco, or not brushing your teeth often enough.
How Does TMJ Cause Tooth Loss?
The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects the jawbone with the skull. One of the primary symptoms of TMJ is pain in or around your upper or lower teeth. This pain, typically accompanied by clicking, cracking and grinding sounds, can cause you to grind your teeth at night when sleeping. Over time, this grinding can break down teeth enamel and wear away at dentin to create cavities.
In cases where there are large gaps between your teeth, it is possible for food particles to enter these spaces and become lodged in between teeth. If you do not address this issue, your teeth can rot and fall out.
Treatment Options for Missing Teeth
Dr. Wainwright provides these solutions to patients in the Austin and West Lake Hills, TX area.
Dental Implants: Single missing teeth or whole arches of teeth can be replaced utilizing dental implants. Dental implants consist of a titanium post which is inserted into the jawbone. After a period of 3 to 6 months, a permanent abutment and dental crown are added for a permanent restoration. Learn more about dental implants.
Dental Bridges: One or more teeth can be replaced with dental bridges. This option can be removable or secured in place with dental implants. Dental bridges can also utilize surrounding natural teeth to secure and replace consecutive missing teeth. Further tooth loss can be prevented with this solution.
Dentures and Partials: Multiple teeth or the upper and lower arches of teeth can be replaced with full or partial dentures. Like dental bridges, dentures can be removable or secured by dental implants. Many patients also find that it is easier to bite and chew food with these dental restorations.
Contact Austin Dental Care for comprehensive and comfortable care today at 512-518-6392. You may also request a consultation with Dr. Wainwright and his professional dental team on our website.