Missing a tooth is never fun. Most people are quick to replace a missing tooth when it’s a front tooth. But if it’s a back tooth, some people will go years without replacing it because the gap isn’t as noticeable. According to the American College of Prosthodontics, it is estimated that 187 million Americans are missing at least one tooth and about 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to implants and not choosing one is the worst choice!
Reasons to Replace Your Missing Teeth
Your teeth may shift and loosen. Having every tooth in your mouth form a perfect row keeps your teeth lined up and stable. If you’re missing a tooth, you run the risk of shifting your teeth. Teeth can drift out of place, leading to a change in your bite, and possible gum disease and tooth decay.- If you have missing teeth, you can develop TMJ disorder. The muscles on the side of your head that help you chew and rotate your jaw are called temporomandibular joints. Changes to these muscles and the system they are connected to can result in a lot of physical pain.
- According to the ADA, the loss of a back tooth can cause your mouth to shift, making changes to your face. All aspects of your face are interconnected, so the loss of a tooth can cause your bone to deteriorate and muscles to droop over time.
- If you don’t replace your missing teeth, your other teeth can weaken. This happens because when a tooth is missing, the remaining teeth take on more pressure to make up for the missing tooth. Eventually, the pressure will get to be too much, and the teeth surrounding the gap can become weak and break easily.
- Most people who replace a missing tooth experience a confidence boost. You can now smile, chew, and talk confidently with your new teeth!
Your teeth may shift and loosen. Having every tooth in your mouth form a perfect row keeps your teeth lined up and stable. If you’re missing a tooth, you run the risk of shifting your teeth. Teeth can drift out of place, leading to a change in your bite, and possible gum disease and tooth decay.Appointments Are One Call Away
If you have a missing tooth and are interested in getting a replacement, Flatirons Family Dental & Orthodontics is currently accepting new patients and following COVID guidelines to keep patients and staff safe.
In our office, we can handle bridges, crowns, veneers, dentures, and more. If you are interested in dental implants we may also refer you to Colorado Oral Surgery Group. Contact us today to learn more about your options.