Many adults have missing permanent teeth that have been lost due to injury, gum disease or tooth decay. Replacing a tooth as soon as possible after it is lost is key to maintaining proper oral health. Not only do missing teeth make you look older than you are, they can also be detrimental to both your health and well being. Replacing missing teeth can also dramatically improve your appearance by improving your smile; improving how you feel about yourself.
Each tooth functions both individually and as a part of your bite. When you lose a tooth, there is empty space left behind that affects the surrounding and opposing teeth if not replaced. The remaining teeth will shift to a new spot, and as the teeth shift, your bite can be disturbed. This causes a food trap to form that will increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. If you lose enough teeth, you will be unable to chew your food properly.
Replacing the missing teeth promptly can prevent movement of your remaining teeth and can help stailize your bite. When a tooth is lost, the supporting bone in the jaw begins to dissolve. This continues until you replace the missing tooth with a dental implant. The longer the tooth is missing, the more bone that is lost, making it difficult to replace. Dental implants can stabilize your bite and bone, and improve your ability to eat a variety of foods.
If you do have missing teeth, Dr. Hatcher and the staff at Cedar Cliff Dental Center will be able to help correct your smile with dental implants and other forms of cosmetic surgery.
Image from: http://www.nwsmiles.com/