Teeth loss influences more than just the appearance of your smile, especially if you lose your front tooth. It impacts your ability to eat and chew properly, as well as your communication skills. It can also contribute to low self-esteem and confidence concerns. If addressed, missing teeth can cause a slew of issues.
Losing teeth, like any other health condition, has its drawbacks. Here are a few of the most common:
1. Deterioration of the Jawbone
Your natural teeth are essential to the health of your jawbone. That is, your teeth are implanted in your jawbone—specifically, the alveolar bone—and the bone has to be utilized to be healthy.
This is due to the fact that bone tissue needs movement to survive. Furthermore, when there is no movement, such as chewing, the bone tissue is not stimulated. So, if you have a missing tooth, you will eventually have bone loss in that part of the jaw since it is not being used or exercised. Jawbone degradation can cause significant jaw discomfort, headaches, sinus enlargement, and a slew of problems with your remaining teeth (e.g., drifting, misalignment, decay, etc.). Furthermore, the deterioration of structural support in your jaw can reduce the distance between your nose and chin and cause your lips to sag with time.
2. Diseased Gums
When you lose teeth, the bone and gum tissue surrounding the space begins to weaken and shrink. This can eventually cause bone loss and gum recession. This bone loss can also cause the remaining teeth to sink into the gums. At this point, the teeth are more vulnerable to gum disease, tooth decay, sensitivity, and the need for a root canal or other procedures.
3. Speech Troubles
Losing teeth impacts your ability to speak and eat normally. If you lose your back teeth, you may experience trouble chewing and swallowing your food or speaking clearly. These problems can adversely affect your ability to function at home and work.
4. Sinus Issues
When you lose a front tooth, your sinuses are left unprotected. This can lead to sinus problems, including nasal congestion and narrowing of the nasal passage. It can also lead to oral problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
5. Your Self-Esteem Suffers
Having a gap in your smile can lead to feelings of being unattractive, keeping you from being active socially. Missing teeth can also impact your wave, making it difficult to smile or laugh. Either way, you may end up avoiding social situations, which can negatively impact your life, your health, and your dental health.
Treatments for Tooth Loss
Losing teeth can be overwhelming and shame-inducing. However, you can take steps to replace the missing teeth. Here are some treatment options:
1. Fixed Bridges
If your teeth are missing in front, a fixed bridge may be the best way to restore your smile. These bridges are made of porcelain or metal. The bridge is placed over the teeth on either side of the gap, with the replacement tooth fused to the middle of the bridge on the outside of the teeth. The bridge serves as a support for the replacement tooth, which is cemented into place.
2. Dental Implants
A dental implant is placed inside of your jawbone, replacing your missing tooth. An implant-supported bridge can be attached to the implant. The bridge serves as a support for the replacement tooth, which is cemented into place.
3. Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are another option to replace missing teeth. You wear them on your gums, and they act like a bridge to hold your replacement teeth in place. However, they are known for being uncomfortable compared to dental implants and bridges.
Conclusion
Going without missing teeth can lead to significant problems, including jawbone deterioration, poor dental health, and low self-esteem. If you have lost a tooth, it is essential to replace it before your teeth fall apart. To avoid the many negative consequences of missing teeth, talk to your dentist about your options.
Find a cosmetic dentist to bring back your smile! At Kabani Dental, we offer cosmetic dentistry services to help you gain your confidence back. Get in touch with us today!