While losing a tooth during childhood is often met with excitement that a visit from the tooth fairy is imminent, it is not quite as fun when you are an adult. Many people lose permanent teeth throughout their lifetimes that necessitate a prompt tooth replacement. While dental implants in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, are a useful option, prevention is preferable. There are some surprising ways you can lose a tooth aside from getting it knocked out from trauma or failing to brush your teeth regularly.

Already Having a Missing Tooth

Losing one tooth is bad enough on its own, but if you do not get it replaced in a timely manner, it can create a chain reaction. The jaw bone will begin to resorb back into the body, weakening the surrounding jaw bone. The empty space can also cause the adjacent teeth to shift out of position, creating a variety of other complications.

Grinding Your Teeth

Many people grind their teeth together when they are feeling stressed, and this can cause significant damage to the teeth. The excessive amount of force can cause teeth to become loose and eventually necessitate a tooth replacement.

Being Diabetic

Diabetes can affect numerous parts of the body, and one area where it can create severe harm is the mouth. Diabetes puts you at a greater risk of developing gum disease, which weakens your gums and jaw bone. Make sure to manage your diabetes effectively in order to lessen your chances of having additional complications.

Failing to Get Dental Check-Ups Routinely

It is recommended that you get your teeth checked out by a professional once every six months, but many people fail to meet that quota because they feel perfectly fine. Issues could be growing that you are unaware of, so protect your teeth by having any problems dealt with in a timely fashion.

In the event that you do lose teeth, Drs. Tom and Mark McCawley offer dental implants in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. 954-376-8894 is the number to call to get started.