Why you SHOULD replace a Missing Tooth

 

There are many reasons you might need to replace a tooth; these can range from the result of an accident to a genetic predisposition. For those who have had the misfortune of having lost one or more teeth, the consequences can be quite challenging to cope with. Alongside aesthetic issues, the loss of a tooth can have negative repercussions of both psychological and physiological natures.

 

Let’s take a look at a few:

• Unbalanced shifting amongst teeth

Teeth are not static; following a tooth’s extraction, the adjacent teeth will slowly shift to fill the newly-vacated area, thereby increasing the gaps between each other. As a result, food is now able to more easily access these gaps, causing tooth decay. As well, tartar will accumulate with greater ease, resulting in gum problems such as gingival recession.

• Reduced chewing efficiency

Chewing will take place solely on the opposite side and, as a result, the jaw joints are disrupted (expressed via ‘crunches’, pain, or clicks) and teeth can begin to squeak (bruxism). As for the teeth that are doing all the chewing, they can become brittle as a result of the increased workload in breaking down food for digestion.

• Decreased self-esteem

The loss of one or more teeth has been shown to be indirectly linked to a decrease in self-esteem. As we know, teeth are associated with smiling, a key form of communication; with tooth loss, the host is often less inclined to smile. They may also go out in public less often for fear that any visually apparent losses may be interpreted as the result of poor oral hygiene.

Seeking a solution? Consider a dental implant

To remedy tooth loss, dental implant therapy emerges as one of the most effective solutions, particularly for those who are ineligible for a dental crown. This type of dental restoration consists of implanting a false tooth (made in the shape of the original tooth) which is affixed on an artificial root, typically made of titanium (a material that is biocompatible with the alveolar bone). Such an implant allows the host to chew food normally and preserves his or her jaw bones.

There are 4 types of dental implants, a breakdown of which can be found in the following article (see article “All on 4 Dental Implants – What are They? And Why You Might be a Candidate?“). As with any medical procedure, it is important to carefully select the specialist who will perform the work; do not hesitate to ask these 5 critical questions to your dentist, as outlined in the article “Dental implants: 5 Questions ask every patient should ask their dental implant specialist.”

While dental implant therapy is rather common procedure, it still requires being an informed patient. If you or a loved one is considering dental implant therapy, do not hesitate to contact us with any of your questions.

The Seaforth Oral Surgery Team