A missing tooth can affect the aesthetics of your smile, but that is only one of the problems that it can cause. This article will explore a few of the consequences of not replacing missing teeth with appropriate dental prosthetics like dental implants, dentures, or bridges.
A missing tooth can be the result of various things, like severe tooth decay, trauma to a tooth, or periodontal disease. Losing a tooth can be a traumatic experience because it drastically changes one's appearance, which is why some people immediately seek a replacement. However, others opt to keep a gap in their smiles. Consequences of not replacing a missing tooth include the following.
The jawbone serves the vital function of anchoring down teeth roots. Teeth also have an essential role: helping to keep the jaw stimulated by transferring bite forces into it. Like muscle tissues, bone tissues need regular stimulation to stay strong and healthy. It causes these tissues to continuously repair damaged cells. A loss of this stimulation leads to atrophy.
Bone tissues in the jawbone are reabsorbed when parts of the jaw stop getting stimulated, leading to changes in the jaw and facial structures. It can diminish the jawline and lead to the chin receding. Reabsorption also increases the risk of the person losing more of their teeth.
Most oral prosthetics for missing teeth like dentures and bridges do not give the jawbone the stimulation that it needs, so replacing teeth with either will not stop the breakdown of bone tissues in the jaw. Dental implants and their hybrids are the only teeth replacement options that prevent bone tissue loss due to missing teeth.
Teeth are constantly pushing on each other, so one falling out alters that balance. The remaining teeth usually shift toward the gap created by the missing tooth, to close it up. It is the body’s way of trying to make up for the fact that there is one less tooth in the mouth.
Unfortunately, that can cause teeth misalignment, and it can also lead to issues with the temporomandibular joints, among other problems. Any oral prosthetic that fills the space left by a missing tooth helps keep the remaining teeth in their correct alignment.
Failing to replace a missing tooth increases bacteria activity in the space left behind, increasing the risk of gum disease. Gum disease is the top cause of adults losing their teeth, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. It is an infection of gum tissues that occurs when bacteria get below the gum line. Having an exposed socket in the mouth makes it easier for these microorganisms to reach that area.
Are you ready to restore your smile? Call or drop by our Austin clinic to learn more about the importance of replacing missing teeth.
Request an appointment here: https://austinprimarydental.com or call Austin Primary Dental at (512) 808-5651 for an appointment in our Austin office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Missing Tooth in Austin, TX.
General dentistry has several approaches to gum disease treatment. The goal is to prevent complications like tooth loss, relieve pain and discomfort, and restore the patient’s smile. Learning the basics of the most common types of gum disease treatment can help patients better understand why a specific approach is recommended for their oral health needs.Gum…
Choosing the right Invisalign dentist is essential for anyone looking to straighten their smile. This treatment is offered by general dentists and orthodontists. It involves customized aligners designed to gradually adjust the alignment of a person's teeth. In order to ensure the best results and a seamless process, it is important to ask the right…
In recent years, clear braces have been a preferred method of straightening teeth. People of all ages can enjoy the benefits these braces provide. However, if you are not careful, yellow and brown stains can appear on them, making the braces stand out. If you follow some basic guidelines, you can maintain their invisibility.There was…
Seeing a preventive dentist is a vital part of your oral healthcare routine each year. However, many people skip this essential step because they do not want to spend time at a dental office. Fortunately, a preventive dentist provides many valuable services that can help your smile last a lifetime and stop future issues before…
General dentistry has several approaches to gum disease treatment. The goal is to prevent complications like tooth loss, relieve pain and discomfort, and restore the patient’s smile. Learning the basics of the most common types of gum disease treatment can help patients better understand why a specific approach is recommended for their oral health needs.Gum…
Choosing the right Invisalign dentist is essential for anyone looking to straighten their smile. This treatment is offered by general dentists and orthodontists. It involves customized aligners designed to gradually adjust the alignment of a person's teeth. In order to ensure the best results and a seamless process, it is important to ask the right…