Tooth loss can happen because of gum disease, tooth decay or trauma. Replacing teeth you’ve lost can reduce your risk for future oral health issues like bone loss, shifting teeth and further tooth loss. Treatments include dental implants, bridges and dentures.
Tooth loss is a rite of passage during childhood. But if you’re an adult, it’s a warning sign that something else is going on. Cavities, gum disease and trauma can cause it.
Losing a permanent (adult) tooth is like pushing over the first domino. Once it happens, it can lead to other oral health issues like bone loss, shifting teeth or jaw pain. Unless you treat tooth loss, it can lead to more teeth falling out in the future. You can stop this cycle with regular dental visits and good oral hygiene at home.
Around 178 million adults in the U.S. have lost at least one tooth. Around 40 million adults have lost all their teeth.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Losing a tooth might come as a surprise, but you’ll know it when it happens. Here are some warning signs that might tell you when you’re about to lose a tooth:
Tell your dentist whenever you notice these signs and symptoms. Early treatment may save your tooth.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. Other causes include:
A risk factor is something that increases your chances of developing a certain condition. Risk factors of tooth loss include:
In addition, some people are more prone to tooth loss, genetically speaking. If you have biological parents, grandparents or siblings with gum disease, you’re more likely to have this condition yourself.
Advertisement
Without treatment, tooth loss can cause complications like:
A dentist diagnoses tooth loss during a dental exam. They’ll also check the health of your teeth and gums to see if you have conditions that might contribute to tooth loss (like tooth decay or gum disease).
Your dentist will also need to take X-rays. These images can tell them how much bone you’ve lost in the area and whether any tooth fragments remain in the socket.
Advertisement
Unless you replace a lost tooth, you’re more likely to lose another one in the future. Replacing a tooth gives you the best chance for long-term oral health.
Dentists can treat tooth loss with:
How long recovery takes depends on several factors like:
Your dentist is the best person to ask about your recovery timeline. They can give you an estimate based on your unique treatment plan.
You can’t always prevent tooth loss, especially when it’s the result of an accident or injury. But there are things you can do to significantly reduce your risk:
Tooth loss might not be dangerous in a life-threatening sense. But losing even one tooth can cause additional issues that impact your health and quality of life. For example, if you can’t chew properly, you won’t be able to eat certain foods. You may not get enough nutrition as a result. In addition, gum disease (the leading cause of tooth loss) is an infection that can spread via your bloodstream throughout your entire body.
Preventive care offers the best outlook. The best thing you can do is see your dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene at home. But even if you’ve already lost a tooth (or all your teeth), it’s never too late to seek the treatment you deserve.
You should visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings. For some people, these visits occur every six months. But you might need more frequent visits if you’re prone to cavities or gum disease. Ask your dentist how often you should have your teeth cleaned for best results.
You should also schedule an appointment with your dentist if you develop bad breath, bleeding gums, loose teeth or other telltale warning signs.
If you’ve lost one or more teeth, you might want to ask your dentist questions like:
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Maybe you cover your mouth when you laugh now. Or maybe you no longer smile for pictures. Tooth loss can have a monumental impact on your confidence, as well as your oral health. Sometimes, tooth loss happens despite your best efforts. But if you lose a tooth, it’s best to act fast. Prompt treatment can reduce your risk for complications like bone loss and infection. Ask your dentist for a personalized treatment plan.
Last reviewed on 08/20/2024.
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy