Our teeth are designed to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, there are many factors and situations that can cause a tooth to fall out or need extraction. When an adult tooth goes missing, however, there are significant drawbacks that can occur regardless of where it is in your mouth. This makes tooth replacement an important step after you have lost a permanent tooth.
Not replacing a missing tooth or teeth can result in consequences that affect your oral health, everyday dental function and appearance. Here are some of the main reasons that you need to consider teeth replacement sooner rather than later:
#1 Compromised Appearance. It is not hard to feel the aesthetic setbacks when a tooth goes missing in the front of your smile. This can result in a loss of confidence and threats to your emotional health.
#2 Chewing and Speaking Difficulties. All of your teeth play a role in helping you chew your food and pronounce certain syllables when you speak. When there are gaps in your smile, you may suffer from poor digestion or avoid certain nutritious (but hard to chew) foods. You may also experience a change in the way you speak or have trouble saying certain words clearly.
#3 Shifting Teeth and Poor Oral Health. If your missing tooth is not replaced soon enough, the adjacent teeth will begin to migrate towards the open space. This results in crooked or shifting teeth, which sets the stage for a host of oral health problems, include decay and gum disease due to brushing challenges as well as TMJ symptoms due to a bad bite or misalignment.
#4 Bone Loss and Premature Facial Aging. Your jawbone retains its density and form through the stimulation of your tooth roots as you chew your food. When a tooth goes missing, the jaw does not receive as much stimulation and it can begin to atrophy or resorb. This can result in a hallowed appearance in your lower face, making you look much older than you really are.
Why a Dental Implant is Your Best Option
When it comes to restorative dentistry, dental implants are the gold standard solution. Implants involve the surgical placement of a titanium post into your jawbone. The implant fuses to your surrounding bone as it heals to form a strong anchor for your crown, bridge, denture or other implant restoration to attach on top. More than any other treatment option, dental implants can replicate your natural teeth in feel, function and appearance. Not only do dental implants prevent bone loss, but they do not demand any dietary restrictions or extra maintenance needs!
Need superior tooth replacement in Old Greenwich? We can help. Old Greenwich Dental Center has transformed countless smiles with advanced options in restorative dentistry, including dental implants. Call today to schedule your consult.
