No one wants to lose a tooth, but sometimes teeth just can't be saved. In most cases, when a tooth has to be removed, it will also need to be replaced.
While it might seem tempting to postpone tooth replacement, there are consequences for waiting that can put your health, appearance, and other teeth at risk.
There Will Be Added Stress On Your Remaining Teeth
When one tooth is missing the other teeth have to work harder to compensate for it's loss. Often, the balance of how the teeth work together is thrown off and they come together in an unusual way that results in more bite force on certain areas of teeth. This added stress can put your remaining teeth at risk for fractures and other damage and make you more susceptible to TMJ joint problems.
You Might Look Older
Your teeth support your cheeks and help fill out the look of your face. When teeth are missing and that support is lost your face shape can change contributing to a look of premature aging. Replacing the missing teeth can help you look younger again.
Teeth Next to the Space Will Move, Putting Them at Risk
Your teeth work together in a balanced system. Each tooth rests against neighbor teeth to help it stay in place. When one is lost, the teeth on either side of the space start to tip into the empty area, looking for their neighbor. Teeth above or below the space will grow out of the bone and into the open space. This often contributes to a cycle of ongoing tooth loss.
Your Ability to Digest Food Can be Compromised
Chewing is the first step in the digestion process and when your ability to chew is compromised, your ability to digest food can be as well. This is most obvious in seniors or people who have lost several teeth. Preventing a cycle of tooth loss by replacing missing teeth can help you enjoy food and stay healthy for years to come.
Dr. Dan Hopper and Dr. Jeannine El-Maasri are experts at replacing missing teeth with implants, bridges, dentures, stayplates, partial dentures, and other dental technologies. Their focus on advanced technology and quality results will give you the healthy smile you deserve.
To schedule a consultation call: (916) 624-3119 Rocklin, CA
