A missing tooth is not something that should be ignored. While it may not seem like a big deal, there are actually a few reasons why it’s important to get a replacement tooth as soon as possible. For one, a missing tooth can cause your other teeth to shift out of place. This can lead to problems with your bite and make it difficult to eat and speak properly. Additionally, a missing tooth can also affect your self-esteem and confidence. It’s important to feel good about yourself, and a missing tooth can definitely have a negative impact on the way you feel about your appearance. If you’re missing a tooth, don’t wait to get it replaced. This article will give some of the reasons why a missing tooth should never be ignored.
- Bone Loss
When you lose a tooth, the bone that supports that tooth starts to resorb or dissolve. This process is called bone loss. Bone loss can happen quickly, within the first few months after tooth loss. It can also happen gradually over many years. Bone loss makes it challenging for the dentist to replace a tooth after it has detoriated especially using a restoration procedure such as dental implant. You will be needed to undergo a bone grafting procedure before the replacement treatment.
- Periodontal Disease
It is important to replace missing teeth since it can lead to periodontal disease. It can happen when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, forms on your teeth and gums. Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar). If not removed, plaque and tartar damage the gums and bone around your teeth. The space that was left after losing a tooth can create a conducive environment for bacteria to thrive. It is very easy to skip this part while brushing, so the bacteria will continue to multiply.
- Discomfort While Eating
When you have a missing tooth, it can be uncomfortable to eat. You may find that your food does not fit properly in your mouth or that certain foods are difficult to chew. This can make eating a meal a frustrating experience. In addition, you may also experience pain when chewing due to the movement of your teeth. This can make it difficult to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Lower Confidence
If you are missing a tooth, it can affect your confidence. When you smile, people will notice the gap in your teeth. You may feel self-conscious about your appearance and avoid smiling or talking to people. This can make it difficult to make friends and interact with others.
- Higher risk of developing TMJ disorder
A missing tooth should not be ignored for several reasons, one being that it can result in a higher risk of developing TMJ disorder. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and disorder, and it is a condition that affects the joints that creates a connection between the lower jaw to the skull. It can cause pain in the jaw, face, neck, and head, as well as clicking or popping, sounds when moving the jaw. Tmj disorder can also make it challenging to open and close the mouth.
- Altered facial features
A missing tooth can have a negative impact on your facial features. When you lose your tooth, the bone that supports the tooth starts to resorb or break down. This can cause your face to sag and make you look older.
Treatment Options for Missing Teeth
There are different ways to replace missing teeth, and the best option for you will entirely depend on your individual needs. Here are some of the options
- Dental Implants
Dental implants are a restoration procedure where a titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone. Once the implant has healed and completely fused with the jawbone, an artificial tooth is attached to it. Dental implants look as well as feel like natural teeth, and they allow you to eat and speak normally. The downside is that they are a bit costly and require a surgical procedure. However, they will serve you for many years since they are durable.
- Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are false teeth held in place by two dental crowns that are placed over adjacent teeth. Bridges can be made from a broad range of materials, including porcelain, metal, or ceramic. They are less expensive than implants, but they do not last as long. Bridges also require special care to clean properly.
- Dentures
Dentures are artificial teeth that fit over your gums and are easily removable. They can be full or partial dentures, and you can have them depending on the number of teeth to be replaced. Dentures take quite some time to get used to wearing them and may feel loose at first. It is important to keep them clean by brushing twice daily and soaking them in water or a cleaning solution when not in use.
Ways to Prevent Losing a Tooth
There are a number of things you can do to avoid losing a tooth:
- Brush and floss your teeth every day. This will remove plaque from your teeth and help keep them healthy.
- Eat a balanced diet s well as avoid sugary snacks. Eating lots of sugary foods can increase the risk of tooth decay.
- See your dentist regularly for checkups as well as cleanings. This will help catch any problems early and keep your teeth healthy.
- Wear a mouthguard if you play sports. This will protect your teeth from being knocked out or damaged during play.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools. Avoid biting your nails, opening packages with your teeth, and chewing on hard objects like ice cubes. These activities can damage your teeth and make them more likely to fall out.
Bottom Line
A missing tooth is not something that should be ignored. There are many consequences that can come from losing a tooth, as discussed above, including an increased risk of gum disease and bone loss. In addition, a missing tooth can also cause your other teeth to shift, which can lead to more serious problems down the road. If you have lost a tooth, be sure to talk to your dentist about replacement options so that you can avoid these potential problems.
Contact us at Carrum Downs Dental Group for teeth replacement. Our dentist will examine you and advise on the best option depending on your needs.