A long time ago, losing a tooth was an exciting occassion. Remember? You put the tooth under your pillow, the tooth fairy came while you were sleeping, and in the morning.. CASH! As an adult, tooth loss is not an exciting occassion. The reasons for tooth loss—severe decay, injury, damage, periodontal disease and infection—are all quite serious. Missing teeth can cause bone loss and really impact how you feel about your smile. Replacing missing teeth is essential to both your oral and overall health. There are several options for tooth replacement such as dentures or a multi-unit crown and bridge, but for the most functional and aesthetic results, dental implants are the preferred choice.