Missing a tooth (especially a front tooth) not only causes embarrassment and self-consciousness, but it can also have serious consequences on your overall health.
According to Web MD, a missing tooth really does more than affect the way you smile. Your mouth functions much like a baseball or football team. If you lose one player, or tooth, the rest of the team (or mouth) may be jeopardized as well.
Cosmetic and Other Health Issues Caused by Missing a Tooth
Most people are aware of the cosmetic issues, but there are others that could be harmful. These include:
- Periodontal problems
- Malocclusion
- Speech defects
- Hyper-eruption
- TMJ issues
When you lose a tooth, the rest of your teeth will try to make up for the space by drifting into the space that has been vacated by your missing tooth. Known as malocclusion, your teeth will begin to rotate and tip putting a serious strain on your jaw joints and TMJ, causing pain and locking.
Lost Fillings, Broken Teeth, and Growth Problems
If you have lost a tooth, especially a back molar, you tend to chew on the opposite side because you have more surface to bite down on. This causes more force that could lead to lost fillings or broken tooth.
Known as hyper-eruption, a tooth that is normally touching the missing tooth when you bite can begin to grow into the spot left by your missing tooth. Some dentists have seen severe cases of hyper-eruption that has caused the roots of the teeth to show. If this happens, gum problems, sensitive teeth, and root decay could become a real issue.
If You’re Missing a Tooth, Seek Treatment FAST
If you have lost one or more of your teeth, you may not be able to speak like you used to. Missing teeth could give you a lisp or even change your voice completely. In addition, because missing teeth will leave gaps, you will be more prone to gum disease as bacteria, food particles and plaque thrive in empty spaces. Make sure that you make an appointment right away as untreated gum disease can cause other issues as well including problems with your heart and your brain.
Schedule an appointment wish us today so that we can recommend a dental procedure to fix your missing tooth, which may include partial or full dentures, fixed bridges, or the best and most permanent solution, dental implants.
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable up-to-date dentistry and a team who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.