People generally lose permanent teeth due to periodontal disease, or gum disease, which is caused by the formation of plaque (a film that sticks to the teeth) and bacteria that attack the gums.

 

Diseased gums are not strong or healthy, so teeth can loosen and fall out.

 

Older people often have many cavities that have been filled with fillings, and these fillings can weaken over time, leading to further tooth decay.

 

About half of the elderly in the United States retain most of their natural teeth. That means that less than half do not keep them.

 

The good news is that the number of people who need dentures is down and is expected to continue to decline because now people are getting better dental care.