Tooth Loss in Veterans: A Lasting Effect of Service

For many veterans, the loss of a tooth isn’t always a sudden event—it can be a gradual process that occurs over time, often due to service-related factors. Some veterans experience tooth loss directly from injuries, accidents, or extractions during active duty, and these events are typically recorded in their service dental records.

However, the impact of service can be far-reaching, and tooth loss may also occur years after leaving active duty. Damage done during military service can often go unnoticed until it leads to significant dental problems. Bruxism (teeth grinding), untreated fractures, and enamel erosion from stress, diet, or medications prescribed for mental health issues are just some of the common contributors to tooth loss that may not be immediately obvious.

In particular, veterans who experience chronic stress, PTSD, or long-term pain management may be more vulnerable to bruxism, which puts undue pressure on teeth and can wear them down over time. Additionally, medications used to manage pain or mental health conditions may cause dry mouth, further contributing to weakened enamel and increased risk of decay. These factors can combine to create an ongoing process of dental attrition, ultimately leading to the need for tooth extractions long after active service has ended.

If you’ve lost a tooth and believe it may be related to your military service, it’s important to explore your options. Veteran Dental Solutions can help with your claims to become eligible for access to DVA’s Dental Program which can help with the cost of treatment which may include bridges or implants.