What Happens if You Don’t Replace Missing Teeth?

What Happens if You Don’t Replace Missing Teeth?

Having a missing tooth or missing teeth can be very problematic. Whether your teeth have been knocked out due to an accident, have fallen out or need to be extracted, you’ll need to consider a replacement option for your overall oral health.

What Happens if You Don’t Replace Missing Teeth?
There are quite a few risks that come with not replacing missing teeth. What people don’t realize is having missing teeth can cause issues with healthy teeth and gums. Because of this, they need to be replaced. Some of the issues that missing teeth can lead to include:
* Increased oral health risk. Once you’ve lost a tooth or teeth, your healthy teeth will shift. This, in turn, can lead to a variety of different problems. Shifting teeth can become crooked, can crowd and can impact each other. All of the movement puts your teeth at weird angles and can cause clutter. Once this is the case, it can be extremely difficult to take proper care of your oral health. Brushing and flossing can be tough, if not impossible. Because of this, you may develop cavities and gum disease, which may worsen over time.
* Teeth loss. Because of the damage that can be done when teeth shift, you are at a higher risk of your healthy teeth being damaged to the point that they may need to be extracted.
* Bone loss. Your jawbone needs your teeth or a replacement to maintain its integrity. Over time, if you have missing teeth and no replacement, your jawbone will begin to deteriorate.
* Lower self-esteem. Missing teeth aren’t aesthetically pleasing—especially if they are front teeth. For a lot of patients, having a missing tooth or teeth leads to a drop in their confidence and self-esteem. You may be less likely to smile if your teeth are missing, which can affect your mood.
* Issues with biting and chewing. Having a missing tooth or teeth can make biting down and chewing more difficult. Teeth replacements provide the strength you need to eat the food you enjoy the most.
Make sure you have your missing teeth replaced to avoid these oral health issues and prevent further damage.

Missing Teeth Replacement Options
There are a few different options that may be available to you if you have a missing tooth or teeth. Some of these options include:
* Implant bridges
* Implant-supported dentures
* Single dental implants
* Full dentures
* And more

Which Replacement Option is Right for Me?
With the different replacement options that are available, you’ll want to see what your options are and make a decision from there. Set an appointment with your dentist so they can look over the area where your tooth or teeth are missing. Depending on different factors, they will determine which choices are available for you. From there, you can discuss cost, insurance, and more.
If you have a missing tooth or teeth, call your dentist’s office and set an appointment for as soon as possible.