Think about the last time you smiled for a picture. Maybe it was at a party, or during your last family holiday gathering. Now, take a moment to think about it. Did you feel self-conscious about missing teeth? How did missing teeth affect the way you show your smile to others?
Having missing teeth can impact every facet of your life—from your professional career to your relationships. But what’s the cost of missing teeth? And more importantly, what can be done about it?
Here’s what our Northville dentists want you to know.
Future Tooth Loss
When you lose one tooth, your risk of losing more increases. That’s because missing teeth can cause others to shift out of place. Your body will also start absorbing the minerals in your jaw to use elsewhere.
This can result in further tooth loss and eventually put your smile at risk.
Discomfort While Chewing/Eating
When missing teeth change your bite, it may impact how you eat and the kinds of foods you can eat. You may find yourself avoiding certain hard-to-chew foods like steak or raw carrots because it’s too uncomfortable. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and missing out on all the healthy foods you need to be eating.
Since they’re fused to the jawbone, you’ll never have to worry about them slipping in public like you would with dentures.
Jaw Pain/TMJ
If you’re missing molars, your jaw experiences more stress when trying to chew and form words. This can eventually cause a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder—which can lead to chronic jaw pain, aching pain in and around your ear, and a jaw that pops and clicks.
Bone Loss and Facial Collapse
If left untreated, can lead to a condition called facial collapse. Your face can begin to look older and gaunter due to the loss of bone structure. But replacing a tooth with a dental implant can help prevent facial collapse so you can continue to smile with confidence.
Learn More: Dental Implants FAQ →
Treatment Options for Missing Teeth
If you’re missing teeth, the best thing that you can do is replace them as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are treatment options that can be used to , such as the dental implant procedure. The best option for you will depend on your overall oral health and specific missing tooth needs.
Regardless of which one is right for you, however, missing teeth should be replaced as soon as possible before the effects become irreversible. Our dentists can help guide you through the process and let you know what you can expect.
Schedule an Appointment with Gasior Family Dental
Call our office to set up an appointment with our dentists in Northville, Michigan. They’ll work with you to replace missing teeth and help you get the smile that you’ve always wanted. Call Gasior Family Dental at (248) 348-7997. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
