Tooth loss is a common problem that can make a person shy or embarrassed about smiling or laughing, but you may wonder why you should worry about replacing a tooth that is too far back in the mouth for most people to see. Restoring a lost molar or premolar can deliver a wide range of oral and overall health benefits, so it’s usually a great idea to replace them soon after losing them. Here’s a quick look at why it’s important to restore lost teeth even if they can be hard to see.
What Happens if I Don’t Replace a Lost Tooth?
Tooth loss deprives the remaining teeth of some of the support they need to chew efficiently and the jawbone of the stimulation it needs to stay healthy and strong. Briefly after a tooth is lost, the part of the jaw it was rooted in will begin to atrophy and recede due to a lack of exercise, which can lead to dental misalignments and further tooth loss. Similarly, losing a tooth can redistribute the pressure of chewing among the remaining teeth, which can lead to increased erosion as well as cracks and chips.
How Can Lost Teeth Be Replaced?
Luckily, tooth loss can be addressed with a variety of appliances, and your dentist will be happy to help you find a solution that suits your needs after a brief consultation. Based on their findings, they may recommend:
- A dental bridge: This device can be a fantastic way to replace one or several missing teeth in a row, and it is supported by dental crowns placed on healthy teeth on either side of the gap created by tooth loss.
- A denture: A full denture can replace an entire arch of lost teeth, and a partial denture can replace one or several teeth throughout the mouth.
- Dental implants: These devices allow artificial teeth mounted upon them to look, function, and feel just like the real thing, and they can prevent or even reverse the process of jawbone atrophy caused by tooth loss.
Don’t let tooth loss set you up for new oral health problems. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to enjoy a gorgeous and complete smile.
About the Author
Dr. David Thomas earned his dental degree at the University of Pittsburgh and completed his Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at the Maricopa Institute of Health Services Hospital. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Washington State Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Burien offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are interested in replacing one or more lost teeth, contact his office online or dial (206) 244-4622.
