When you lose a tooth as a child, you get the fun and the money of the Tooth Fairy. Unfortunately, when you lose a tooth as an adult that fun is gone. A tooth can be lost in an adulthood for several reasons, such as severe damage or decay, gum disease, or an injury. If a wisdom tooth is removed, it does not need to be replaced. However, when a tooth in the forefront of your smile is lost, the need to replace feels more urgent. The reasons to replace a missing tooth go far beyond vanity though. There are several reasons affecting your health that make it imperative to replace a missing tooth.
To minimize bone loss
A tooth and its roots stimulate the jawbone. When a tooth and the roots are removed, that bone is no longer stimulated. Without the stimulation from the tooth’s activity, the bone will begin to resorb or break down. Bone resorption can cause pain in the jaw. Because the jawbone begins to soften during resorption, the teeth in that area of the jaw begin to lose their stable foundation. Imagine a house built on quicksand. Over time, one missing tooth can risk the loss of other teeth. Bone loss can change the shape and appearance of the jaw and cheeks.
To keep the ability to chew and speak
A missing tooth can make chewing and speaking more difficult. Certain food can be more challenging to eat with a missing tooth. If you begin to overcompensate and use the other side of your mouth to chew, those teeth receive more wear and tear becoming more at risk for decay and damage. If a tooth is missing in the front of your mouth, it can cause a lisp.
It is important to replace a missing tooth
Dr. Okoniewski can discuss the options of how to replace a missing tooth. Call Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI today at (248) 852-1820 to schedule a consultation. We also have a smaller satellite office in Dryden, MI, if you would prefer to schedule a consultation at that location.
