Hidden Consequences of Missing Teeth
A missing tooth might seem like a minor concern, but in reality, tooth loss should never be taken lightly. The potential consequences of untreated tooth loss can be much more significant than patients realize, frequently compromising both oral health and overall well-being.* Beyond the obvious aesthetic concerns, the gaps left by missing teeth can lead to a plethora of problems. According to our experienced Bethesda dentists, Drs. Deborah Klotz and Robert Schlossberg, these complications frequently include:
- Jawbone deterioration. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding bone that once supported its root no longer receives the stimulation it needs to maintain its density and structure. This lack of stimulation can weaken the jawbone over time.
- Bite complications. Missing teeth can alter the way you chew your food. For instance, you may unconsciously favor one side of your mouth, which can cause strain on your jaw joints and even prompt a more serious issue, such as a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
- Shifting. All your teeth compliment one another, working together to maintain your mouth’s structure. When you lose a tooth, the neighboring teeth near its gap may start to shift into the empty space, causing misalignment, cracks, and more.
- Periodontal disease. When a tooth is missing, the gap or space left behind can create pockets where food particles can accumulate. These pockets can be difficult to clean properly with regular brushing and flossing, often resulting in the growth of harmful bacteria and development of gum disease.
- Facial collapse. Frighteningly enough, jawbone resorption as a result of missing teeth can lead to changes in the shape of your face, sometimes producing a sunken or prematurely aged appearance. This phenomenon is known as “facial collapse.”*
If you are missing one or multiple teeth, you may find a solution in dental implants. A very popular and versatile example of restorative dentistry, implants are designed to emulate the natural tooth structure, consisting of a titanium post inserted into the jawbone and a sturdy, lifelike dental crown to replace the tooth’s visible portion. When crafted and placed by dental professionals, implants can not only restore the appearance of your smile, but also preserve the integrity of your jawbone and mitigate many of the potential consequences of a missing tooth. We invite you to take a look at our sister website, where we provide ample information about dental implants.
To learn more about implants or our other advanced restorative treatments, feel free to contact Bethesda Sedation Dentistry today!