What Happens If You Don’t Replace Missing Teeth
Teeth which are missing or broken are relatively common. For patients who still have most of their natural teeth, it may not seem concerning. In some cases, patients are not concerned with replacing their missing teeth. However, it is very important to replace missing teeth. Neglecting to replace one or more missing teeth can have a negative impact on both oral and physical health. Missing teeth which are not properly treated can result in serious and long-term issues.
Partial Dentures and Implant Dentures
In the past, most patients thought of dentures as the only solution for replacing missing teeth. Dentures can be bulky, uncomfortable, challenging to clean and restrictive. Fortunately, modern dentistry has introduced new options which are extremely secure and mimic the natural teeth in both their function and appearance. These solutions are especially helpful for patients with just a few missing teeth. Partial dentures are removable and can be used to fill in the gaps where missing teeth are located. They can be created using traditional hard resin or as flexible partial dentures. Implant-supported dentures are another excellent tooth-replacement option. They can be used for patients who are missing one tooth or for the replacement of multiple teeth. Implant-supported dentures are a permanent option as the implant is surgically placed in the jaw bone and cannot be removed without a dentist. Dental implants can also be used when a patient is missing teeth. This solution is extremely secure and has the appearance and function of the natural teeth. Implants which are properly maintained can last for a lifetime.
Consequences of Missing Teeth
There can be serious consequences when patients chose to not replace their missing teeth. The following of some of the challenges associated with missing teeth which are not treated:
- Bone Loss: When a patient is missing a tooth, there is no stimulation of the jawbone. As a result, it can start to resorb or deteriorate. This can impact the patient’s facial structure. Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth as they stimulate the jawbone.
- General Health: Teeth which are missing or broken can make it difficult to eat certain types of foods. Foods which are nutritious and rich in fiber can be especially difficult to consume. Over time, this can result in deficiencies and negatively affect a patient’s overall health. Inadequate nutrition can result in serious medical conditions including diabetes and heart disease.
- Headaches: Some patients who are missing one or more teeth avoid chewing on that side of their mouth. This uneven use can result in persistent headaches which do not improve.
- Impact Remaining Natural Teeth: One negative side effect associated with missing teeth is allowing the remaining natural teeth to move or shift into the existing gap. This can also cause a weakening of the tooth’s roots. When this shifting occurs, it can compromise the surrounding teeth. In some cases, it can also cause additional tooth loss. It is common for untreated missing teeth to cause bite issues as well. Over time, this can result in the over-use and weakening of the remaining natural teeth.
- Misaligned Teeth. Gaps in the mouth from missing teeth can cause the remaining natural teeth to shift and ultimately result in the teeth becoming misaligned.
It is important to treat missing teeth as they can result in serious, long-term issues. Follow up with your dentist to discuss which tooth-replacement solutions are a good fit.