Losing one or more of your permanent teeth can be distressing because, unlike primary teeth, they do not get replaced. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several ways to replace missing teeth in a natural-looking way. But before you consider those treatment options, it may be helpful to understand what happens if you don’t replace a missing tooth. Keep reading!
Why Does Tooth Loss Occur?
While permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime, there are many reasons why you might experience tooth loss. One of the major causes is tooth decay, in which oral bacteria release acidic substances that break down the tooth enamel. Severe decay may sometimes require extraction when the tooth cannot be restored.
Another common issue is periodontal or gum disease. This condition affects the supportive tissues around your teeth. As a result, the teeth become unstable and may eventually fall out.
In certain cases, tooth loss can also occur due to dental trauma or injury. If that happens, the best option is to get the missing tooth replaced as early as possible to maintain your smile and oral functions.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Missing Teeth?
Many people assume that losing one tooth might not be a big deal, especially if the gap is not visible on the front. However, failing to replace one or more missing teeth can cause several long-term complications:
- Bone loss: The jawbone in the extraction site gradually resorbs when a tooth is lost.
- Shifting teeth: Leaving a missing tooth gap untreated may cause the adjacent teeth to shift away. It can result in changes in your bite or teeth alignment.
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease: Shifting teeth and harder-to-clean spaces can make plaque control more difficult, increasing decay and gum disease risk.
- Changes in facial appearance: Over time, bone loss in the jaw can contribute to subtle changes in facial shape or support.
How Can Missing Teeth Be Replaced?
Fortunately, there are multiple effective options for missing teeth replacement. Depending on your oral health concerns, your dentist may recommend:
- Dental implants: They are surgically inserted in the jawbone, replacing the root portion of natural teeth. Once the implants heal, your dentist can secure custom crowns or dentures over them to provide a stable tooth replacement.
- Dental bridges: Bridges are supported by crowns placed on adjacent teeth, which must be reshaped for the restoration.Once a bridge is fixed, you can smile, chew, and speak more comfortably.
- Dentures: For those who have lost multiple permanent teeth, removable dentures can be a convenient option. The denture base rests on the gums and underlying bone, allowing functional replacement of multiple teeth.
Final Words
Whether you experience tooth loss due to a high-impact injury or tooth decay, the best approach is to consider replacing your missing teeth as early as possible. Without prompt replacement, you may notice bite changes and oral health complications. For customized tooth replacement options, consult our dental expert at Anh B. Dao, DDS & Associates. Call us at (281) 992-7000 for an appointment.