Losing a tooth is an all too common issue many individuals experience, and it can have far-reaching consequences beyond the aesthetic concern of a gap in between your teeth. The reality is that losing a tooth can significantly affect your overall health. It’s important to note that the longer you wait to replace a missing tooth, the greater your risk becomes for losing additional teeth and developing other problems. If you’ve found yourself in a situation where you’ve lost a tooth or several teeth, it’s crucial to take the necessary steps to address the issue, including seeking professional help. Our experienced restorative dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ can provide you with various treatment options, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures, to restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile. Please continue reading as we explore the risks associated with missing teeth and how our team can help you regain a healthy, confident smile.
What Happens if Missing Teeth Are Not Replaced?
First, it’s important to understand that tooth loss is often caused by tooth decay or trauma. While this issue can be corrected with restorative options like dental implants, bridges, and dentures, many forego treatment and simple with the loss. However, this is a big mistake as not replacing even one missing tooth can have adverse effects on your health.
When you are missing one or more teeth it can cause neighboring teeth to start shifting toward the empty space. This can cause misalignment and potential bite issues if not replaced properly. When your teeth shift, it can drastically impact how your teeth come together when you bite. An improper bite (malocclusion) can promote bruxism, which is the habitual grinding of teeth. It can also lead to problems like tooth loss, sensitivity, and even Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD).
Furthermore, having a strong jawbone is essential as it keeps your tooth roots in place. When you chew, this helps stimulate and support the bone of your jaw, helping you maintain your muscles. Without this type of stimulation from a tooth, the bone gradually reabsorbs parts of the jawbone. This accelerates tooth loss and changes the shape of the face.
As you can see, missing teeth can impact more than just the appearance of your smile. They can affect your overall health, and they can lead to more serious, and costly, dental issues. Therefore, if you’re missing one or several teeth, it’s in your best interest to schedule an appointment with the dedicated team at Dental Associates of Baking Ridge. Our team can help you explore your restorative options and determine the best treatment. Connect with us today for more information.
