When you think of tooth loss, the image that comes to mind may be that of tucking a baby tooth under your pillow at night, hoping for the tooth fairy to replace it with something spendable. You might picture your grandparents placing their dentures in cleaning solution on the bathroom sink each night. That’s a sobering image.

The fact is, while often associated with the very young or the very old, premature tooth loss can occur at any age – and is more common than you think. A bad fall. A car accident. An episode of fisticuffs where your teeth are the real losers. All could end in premature tooth loss. Serious gum disease or even oral cancer can also result in tooth loss at any age.

So what are your options if you experience premature tooth loss?

Dentures (for total tooth loss). Dental implants -- more expensive than dentures, but they feel and look more like real teeth. A fixed bridge, a bonded bridge, or a partial denture are also sound alternatives, depending on the extent of your loss.

If you’ve experienced premature tooth loss, sit down with your dentist to discuss your options…and make the best decision for your goals (and your budget).