Impact of Failing to Replace a Missing Tooth

Missing Tooth Tulare, CA

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.

Consequences of not replacing missing teeth

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.

1. Causes bone deterioration in the jaw

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.

2. Causes poor teeth alignment

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.

3. Increases the risk of infection

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.

We replace missing teeth

Are you ready to restore your smile? Call or drop by our Tulare clinic to learn more about the importance of replacing missing teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://brianbelldds.com or call Brian Bell, DDS at (559) 366-9006 for an appointment in our Tulare office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Missing Tooth in Tulare, CA.

 

Related Posts

How Long Does Dental Implant Placement Take?

Getting dental implants is an important choice in your goals for good oral health. This treatment is also a great way to restore your smile and feel good about your appearance again. If you compare implants to other tooth-replacement options, you will see the differences and benefits that implants offer. The process of getting implants…

Are You A Candidate For Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a valuable solution for individuals with missing teeth, providing functional and aesthetic benefits. If you are considering dental bridges to restore your smile, you will need to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.Let us discuss the factors that determine whether a patient is a suitable candidate for…

What Types Of Materials Are Used In Making Dentures?

A lot of people are curious about what materials are used to make dental dentures. This article will show you the different types of materials that can be used and their benefits, and which material is best for your situation.Dental dentures are used to replace missing teeth that cannot be fixed with a dental bridge.…

At Home Tips From An Emergency Dentist For A Toothache

When you cannot reach an emergency dentist, relying on professional tips can help relieve your toothache. Dental issues can spring up all of a sudden, and when you are in a situation where you cannot access an emergency dentist, effective tips are all you have. Some solutions may be quick-acting, while others may help manage…