Those who have a missing tooth have likely heard a lot about the effects of missing teeth and replacement options. Replacing a missing tooth is more than just improving the smile’s appearance. To fully get the importance of tooth replacement, it is crucial to understand the effects of leaving the tooth unreplaced. This article covers some of the truths and myths surrounding teeth replacement.
The following are truths regarding the replacement of a missing tooth:
A missing tooth causes jawbone loss: The jawbone gets its strength from the stimulation generated when biting and chewing. Once the tooth is lost, the bone in the area weakens because it cannot get adequate stimulation. Bone weakening is also called resorption. This condition can affect the structural integrity of other teeth.
Other teeth will shift: When there is a gap between the teeth, other teeth will begin to move, causing bite misalignment. The shift may cause the teeth to loosen, a phenomenon called bite collapse and tooth splaying. The crooked teeth can make the teeth difficult to clean, leading to other dental issues.
Headaches: A missing tooth can result in headaches and temporomandibular joint disorder. The problem is that with one tooth gone, the rest of the teeth have to work more chew and bite foods.
Replacing missing teeth is painful: This is one of the common myths that has discouraged many from seeking teeth replacement options. This is however untrue. The dentist will perform the dental restoration procedure under local anesthetic, which means patients will not experience any pain during and after the procedure. Also, when the process is handled by a professional dentist, the risks are minimal and patients will get to discuss options to minimize pain during and after the treatment.
Teeth replacement is too expensive: It is reasonable to consider the cost of replacing a lost tooth. Most people would prefer to stay with a hole in their smiles than spend a lot of money on dental restoration. However, the process is not as expensive as people think. The dentist can provide patients with cost-effective and practical options to replace the tooth. Despite this, the cost of doing nothing is more so it is better to go through with the process.
Tooth replacements stand out between the teeth: Years ago, the materials used for replacing a missing tooth were not as natural-looking as those available now. Advancements in dentistry have provided dentists with materials that are customizable and blend in seamlessly with the rest of the smile.
Replacing a missing tooth is necessary because the consequences of leaving a hole in the smile are too serious to overlook, whether it be jawbone resorption and headaches to misaligned teeth and speech issues. Multiple dental studies have shown that losing only one tooth can cause the collapse of the bite and the loss of other teeth. It is advisable to visit a general dentist as soon as possible to discuss tooth replacement options.
Request an appointment here: https://dentistinsanclemente.com or call Nina Basti DDS at (949) 201-4719 for an appointment in our San Clemente office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Missing Tooth in San Clemente, CA.
For individuals with crooked or misaligned teeth, a dental provider may recommend wearing braces as a corrective treatment. Patients may be able to choose between clear braces or metal braces, depending on the condition of the teeth and mouth. Though the overall goal of straightening the teeth is one reason many pursue braces, there are…
Patients who are ready to take the step and get dentures now have more options than would have had in the last five to 10 years.As dental technology continues to advance, patients who have one or more missing teeth now have several options for them to choose from with their dentist.For individuals that are ready…
Dental fillings can last a long time, but they are not life-long restorations. Most fillings will need to be replaced after around a decade, with some types lasting longer than others. If you are wondering whether it is time to replace your old dental filling, be aware that as long as it is continuing to…
A dental implant is the gold standard in dental restorations. It can replace an entire tooth structure from the crown to the roots. This tooth replacement can enhance your oral function and health. Here are the details on how a dental implant can improve your quality of life.Research shows that oral structures work together to…
Straightening the teeth can take months or years before achieving the desired result, as they…
Wondering about what same-day dentures are and if they work? Check out this article now…
Replacing old dental fillings is a part of good oral healthcare from time to time.
The stability of this restoration keeps the teeth in place, resulting in more comfortable speech…
There is no need to be apprehensive about a root canal appointment. Many people believe…
Laser dentistry is a painless, minimally invasive procedure that usually does not require an anesthetic…
