What is the Problem with Missing Teeth?
What is the Problem with Missing Teeth?
There are a lot of issues that come with missing teeth. The first thing that comes to mind is the look of missing teeth. No one wants to smile and show a missing tooth or teeth. Beyond that, though, there are a variety of other issues that come with having a missing tooth or teeth.
What is the Problem with Missing Teeth?
Some of the oral health (and overall health) issues that come with missing teeth include:
* Loss of More Teeth. Did you know that having a missing tooth can actually increase your chances of losing more teeth by 30%? That one missing tooth can quickly lead to another, and more after that. Fix your missing tooth quickly to avoid missing more.
* Lower self-esteem. Many people find it challenging to smile with a missing tooth or teeth. They are worried about the way their smile looks and they are self-conscious. This, in turn, can lead to lower self-esteem.
* Crooked teeth and crowding. What people often don’t think about is how each tooth helps to keep the surrounding teeth in place. Having a missing tooth or teeth can lead to teeth migration. This means your teeth will become crooked and begin to crowd. This movement can lead to impacting and damaging other, healthy teeth.
* Bone loss. Your jawbone needs your teeth (or teeth replacements) to stay strong. If you don’t replace a missing tooth or teeth, your jawbone will begin to deteriorate over time.
* Increased health risk. As teeth shift, crowd, and become more crooked, they become much more difficult to properly care for. Brushing and flossing properly can be challenging, if not impossible. This, in turn, leads to cavities, gum disease, and other issues. As these issues become more severe, the chances of losing another tooth to decay become much higher.
* Issues with your bite. Biting and chewing can be difficult with a missing tooth, and especially so with missing teeth. Some patients also find they develop bruxism (teeth grinding).
These issues can compound over time and become worse. It’s important to get your missing tooth or teeth replaced soon.
What Are Some Missing Teeth Replacement Options?
Once your tooth or teeth fall out, are extracted, or are knocked out, you will need to consider replacement options as soon as possible. Some of these replacement options may include:
* Implant bridges
* Full dentures
* Implant-supported dentures
* Single dental implants
* And more
Which option is right for you will depend on a few factors. One of these factors is costs. Dentures are often cheaper than implants, for instance. Another is the strength and longevity of the replacement. Finally, you’ll need to consider if you are a candidate for that form of replacement. Some patients, for instance, are unable to have dental implants placed.
Reach Out to Your Dentist
For more information about tooth replacement and what options may be available for you, reach out to your dentist today. The sooner you can have your tooth or teeth replaced, the better.