Failing to replace a missing tooth can have long-term adverse effects on your dental and overall health. It can change the natural shape of your facial structures and affect your smile's appearance. It can also make you more vulnerable to periodontal disease, which happens to be the top cause of adult tooth loss, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
A missing tooth affecting one's appearance is the least of the adverse effects of not replacing it. This article looks at a few of the worst consequences and how they can impact dental and overall health.
One of the most severe consequences of not having a missing tooth replaced is the permanent bone loss that it leads to because the jaw is not getting the stimulation that it needs to remain healthy. Muscle tissues break down when they stop getting stimulated, and the same applies to bone tissues. Atrophy occurs, which leads to resorption. The bone tissue loss caused by missing teeth can negatively impact a person's ability to move their jaw, and some people develop jaw pain due to it.
The bone tissue breakdown also alters facial structures, leading to fine lines and wrinkles forming around the mouth. Dentists often recommend replacing missing teeth with dental implants because these are the only teeth replacement options that give the jawbone the stimulation that it needs to remain healthy. Dentures and bridges do not provide this benefit.
Teeth constantly apply pressure on each other due to their proximity. When one falls out, the remaining teeth often move closer to the gap left behind, in an attempt to close it up. This changes a person's bite as their teeth move out of their proper alignment.
Misaligned teeth are more vulnerable to decay, and they can cause other problems, like mouth pain, difficulty chewing, and headaches. Misaligned teeth can also lead to an improper bite, increasing the risk of the teeth getting damaged when chewing on food. Teeth-straightening treatments are usually needed to correct the bites of patients with poor alignment due to a missing tooth.
Missing teeth make people more vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease, which are the two most common reasons that people seek dental care. This leads to higher dental bills in the future when the patient must get treatment for these issues.
Gum disease is responsible for most adult tooth loss, so people who fail to get a missing tooth replaced are likely to lose more teeth. Gum disease is also linked to serious health issues, like heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease, according to Healthline.
Our dentist regularly replaces missing teeth with oral prosthetics like dentures, bridges, and implants. Give us a call or drop by our Sonoma clinic to set up an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://sonoma.saidental.net or call Sai Dental Care at (707) 509-1147 for an appointment in our Sonoma office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Missing Tooth in Sonoma, CA.
Deciding to get a smile makeover is something many people consider at one point or another. It is not only easier than ever to undergo makeover treatments, but dentists can also complete many treatments in just one or two dental appointments. This makes it necessary to understand the different choices available. Ready to learn more…
Dental fillings can last a long time, but they are not life-long restorations. Most fillings will need to be replaced after around a decade, with some types lasting longer than others. If you are wondering whether it is time to replace your old dental filling, be aware that as long as it is continuing to…
A kid-friendly dentist treats oral health concerns in children. However, an equally important part of their job is to work with parents to improve their child’s oral hygiene at home. This is because the majority of oral care takes place away from the office, so parents knowing how to help their child maintain a beautiful…
An implant crown is an important part of dental implants. This is a cap that goes on the end of the implant, acting as the tooth. It is natural-looking in color, shape, and size. If you are missing a tooth, you should not have to live with a gap in your mouth. This treatment can…
Deciding to get a smile makeover is something many people consider at one point or…
Dental fillings can last a long time, but they are not life-long restorations.
Being able to identify oral health concerns in the early stages can help children with…
Implants can restore the full function of the mouth by improving the person’s chewing ability.…
A root canal treatment can restore a severely decayed or damaged tooth. This invasive procedure…
Most dentists do not use any anesthesia during the dental bonding procedure, and the patient…
