What causes tooth loss at the age of 50?
Generally, tooth loss at age 50 is usually caused by aging, poor lifestyle habits, periodontal disease, pulpitis, osteoporosis, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
With increasing age, teeth and periodontal tissues gradually degenerate. The supporting capacity of the periodontal ligament weakens, leading to loose and eventually lost teeth. It is advisable to avoid eating overly hard foods. Under a doctor's guidance, removable dentures can be installed—these are fixed onto remaining teeth or mucosa using clasps or other retention devices and can be removed and worn by the patient. The typical reference price for removable dentures ranges from 300 to 2,000 yuan per session. Improvement is generally seen within 1–2 days, although symptoms such as increased saliva secretion may occur.
2. Poor Lifestyle Habits
Long-term smoking and alcohol consumption can damage teeth and periodontal tissues, accelerating tooth loss. It is important to quit smoking and drinking. Under medical supervision, full ceramic crowns may also be installed. These prosthetics are bonded to the tooth surface or alveolar bone using adhesives, offering high stability and aesthetic appeal. The typical reference price for full ceramic crowns is 500–1,500 yuan per tooth. Noticeable improvement usually occurs within 2–7 days, though symptoms such as chewing difficulties or unclear speech may occur.
3. Periodontal Disease
Poor oral hygiene leads to plaque and tartar buildup on tooth surfaces and within periodontal pockets, damaging periodontal tissues. Over time, alveolar bone is gradually absorbed, causing teeth to lose support and fall out. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Patients can also visit professional hospitals for ultrasonic scaling, which uses high-frequency vibrations to remove plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, improving dental aesthetics. The typical reference price for ultrasonic scaling is 500–1,000 yuan per session. Improvement is generally observed within 2–4 weeks, although symptoms such as pain or foreign body sensation may occur.
4. Pulpitis
Bacterial infections caused by streptococcus, actinomyces, lactobacillus, and others can lead to pulpitis, resulting in periodontal tissue damage and tooth loosening, often accompanied by tooth pain. Using dental floss regularly helps clean teeth. Root canal treatment, performed under a doctor’s guidance, involves mechanical and chemical removal of pulp tissue and elimination of infection within the root canal system, preserving the affected tooth or root. The typical reference price for root canal treatment is 450–1,600 yuan per session. Improvement is usually seen within 2–4 weeks, although tooth pain or bleeding may occur as side effects.
5. Osteoporosis
Long-term low-calcium diets and insufficient vitamin D intake can trigger osteoporosis, leading to resorption and atrophy of the alveolar bone. This reduces support for teeth, making them loose and potentially resulting in tooth loss. Symptoms such as tooth sensitivity may also appear. Under medical supervision, medications such as Gusongbao Granules, Calcium Carbonate D3 Tablets, or Alendronate Sodium Tablets may be used for treatment.
When undergoing any of the above procedures, it is recommended to visit正规 hospitals and have treatments performed under the guidance of qualified professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness. In daily life, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding unhealthy lifestyle habits, and scheduling regular dental check-ups are strongly advised.