Some people can hear a tiny pop while chewing, and their tooth just drops out on their palms. It’s not a scenario anybody would like to experience. Although teeth falling out suddenly can catch you off-guard, it’s not the right time to panic. Stay calm and visit your dentist to rule out the right cause.
Causes Behind Sudden Teeth Loss
Loss of permanent teeth can happen for many reasons, and you are never alone in your struggle. Around 25% of American adults have 3 or more missing teeth. Acknowledging the underlying causes can help you seek timely treatment.
- Gum Disease
Our gums work as a foundation for our teeth. If they catch a disease, teeth popping out suddenly won’t be a surprise. It is known as the leading reason for tooth loss. It happens when plaque, tartar, and bacteria accumulated on your dental surfaces trigger an infection under the gums.
If you leave it untreated, it can compromise the structural integrity of your dental bone. This makes your teeth automatically loosen up their grip and fall out. But don’t lose hope; it is treatable. - Dental Decay
Cavities and dental decay affect countless teeth worldwide. It occurs when harmful bacteria from sugary and acidic foods stick to your teeth. It clings to your teeth and eats away the enamel that protects them.
At early stages, when cavities are small, they can be fixed using fillings to prevent the decay from spreading. Root canal treatments can resolve moderate dental decay, while severe ones require extraction. Intense dental decay can make them pop out on their own. - Dental Trauma
Sudden impact or force to the mouth, such as a sports injury, car accident, or fall, can dislodge or fracture a tooth. This kind of trauma can damage the tooth’s structure or dislodge it from its socket in the jawbone. - Dental Abscess
A bacterial infection triggers a puss-filled pocket known as an abscess. If an infection reaches the pulp of the tooth or the surrounding gums, it can develop an abscess. As the infection progresses, it can harm the tooth and surrounding tissues, possibly resulting in tooth detachment if not treated on time. - Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Chronic teeth grinding, or bruxism can exert excessive force on the teeth, wearing down the enamel and causing fractures or cracks. Over time, this repetitive stress can weaken the teeth and make them more prone to loosening or falling out. - Poor Oral Hygiene
Inadequate oral hygiene, including infrequent brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can allow plaque and tartar to accumulate on the teeth and gums. Without proper care, this buildup can lead to gum disease and tooth decay, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. - Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis or autoimmune diseases, can elevate the risk of tooth loss. These conditions can impact the health of the teeth and supporting structures, making them vulnerable to loss. - Smoking
Tobacco use, including smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco, is a significant risk factor for gum disease and tooth loss. Smoking can impair blood flow to the gums, weaken the immune system, and disrupt the body’s ability to heal, making smokers exposed to oral health problems. - Genetics
Some people can have a genetic predisposition to certain dental conditions. These include gum disease or enamel defects that cause tooth loss. Genetic factors can impact the strength and structure of the teeth and gums. - Malnutrition
Poor nutrition, particularly deficiencies in necessary nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, can weaken the teeth and bones. A diet lacking in these nutrients can impair tooth development and maintenance, exposing the teeth to wear and tear and, eventually, detachment.
Ending Notes
Multiple factors are working behind why your teeth are falling out. You can receive timely treatment to prevent further teeth loss while compensating for missing teeth.
However, there is no substitute for early diagnosis and care. Dr. Felix at Whole Health Dental Center can help you avoid these problems. Call us at (703) 385-6425 to book an appointment.