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Tooth decay and gum disease are the major causes of tooth loss in Australia. Tooth decay is often caused by having too much sugary food and drink, poor dental hygiene, and avoiding the dentist for a long period of time. Bacteria in your mouth, especially Streptococcus mutans, release acids and toxins which weaken the enamel and create small holes known as cavities. These cavities become larger and tunnel through the tooth until it reaches the dentin and eventually the dental pulp. This causes extreme pain and discomfort and eventually the tooth will rot and die. After that, you will have to undergo a tooth extraction or the tooth may fall out of its own accord. The process itself could take weeks, months, or even years. However, the longer you ignore it, the more complications you will face and you could lose multiple teeth.
Gum disease is also caused as a result of poor dental hygiene, avoiding the Dentist, and sometimes genetic predisposition. As the gums weaken as a result of gum disease they are not able to support the teeth properly and this can result in missing teeth. Gum disease can result in losing multiple teeth in a short amount of time so it is important that you visit your dentist when you notice any signs or symptoms. In the early stages, both tooth decay and gum disease can be treated, but if you continue to avoid the dentist then irreversible damage can result in tooth loss. If you have lost a tooth or multiple teeth, it is important that you speak to your dentist and find out about dental implants Melbourne.
Dental implants Melbourne
Dental implants Melbourne are medical grade, pure titanium screws that replace tooth roots and provide a permanent solution for missing teeth. If you have lost a tooth either as a result of tooth decay or gum disease then the Dentist will check your mouth to make sure that the rest of your teeth are healthy, if not they will need to be treated before you can replace your missing teeth. Your dentist will also check your gums and make sure they are healthy and strong. If you are still suffering from gum disease this will need to be treated before you can have dental implants Melbourne and if you have recurring gum disease then your dentist may speak to you about other options as dental implants Melbourne may not be suitable for you.
Dental implants can restore the function and the appearance of your mouth, which is why if you are eligible it is the best option to choose.
Health conditions which cause tooth loss
Whilst tooth decay and gum disease as a result of poor dental hygiene are the most common causes of tooth loss, certain illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis and diabetes can cause tooth decay and gum disease and increase your chance of losing your teeth.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition which causes inflammation of the gum tissue and therefore increases the likelihood of developing gum disease which leads to tooth loss. Rheumatoid arthritis can be related to Sjogren’s syndrome. This is another inflammatory condition which causes dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and tooth decay. Eventually this can cause irreversible damage and tooth loss. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis may or may not be suitable for dental implants, your Dentist will put together an individually tailored treatment plan for you.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis also causes tooth loss because it reduces bone mineral density and results in bone loss or thinning bone in the jaw so that your teeth can no longer be supported properly resulting in missing teeth. Patients with osteoporosis may have their teeth replaced with dental implants. However, they will need to undergo bone grafting first which will increase the quality and the quantity of the bone, which will then be able to hold the implant securely in place.
Diabetes
Patients who suffer from diabetes have high levels of sugar in the blood. This results in a high level of sugar in the saliva. The sugar in your saliva causes bacteria in your mouth to multiply quickly and continually and this increases the likelihood of developing tooth decay and gum disease which result in premature tooth loss. Despite maintaining excellent dental hygiene, it can be difficult to avoid tooth loss with diabetes. If your diabetes is under control, then you may be eligible for dental implants. However, if you have uncontrolled diabetes the success rate of dental implants drop significantly to 50% and therefore your Dentist may recommend alternative tooth replacement options. Speak to your dentist today to find out more about replacing missing teeth.
Disclaimer
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
