1
Loss of Functionality
Tooth loss can affect the way you speak and what you can eat. People who are missing teeth often slur their words, making communication more difficult. It can also weaken your bite and make eating your favorite foods, such as steak and hard fruits, more complex.
Dental implants replace your natural tooth root in your jawbone and support porcelain crowns that act like natural teeth — both work together to restore functionality that was previously limited.
2
Increased Risk of Oral Infection
A gap between your teeth becomes an aggravating “food trap,” making it hard to reach food particles and other debris while you brush and floss.
People with missing teeth have an increased risk of infections such as tooth decay and gum disease. This can lead to tissue loss and other dental health problems, which raises the costs of treatment in the long term because of the need for additional work to ensure your well-being is on track.
3
Weakening Jawbone
Your tooth roots provide strength and stability for your jaw by stimulating the bone using the force and energy of your daily routine, including chewing and speaking. Much like a muscle, the tissue in the jaw is strained and then repaired which makes it stronger.
When you’re missing a tooth, the jawbone loses stimulation and becomes weak, causing it to lose its shape. Implants are the only restoration that protects the jaw from further bone loss.
4
Premature Wrinkling
Once the jaw begins to lose shape, the skin around it loosens and starts to sag. This effect can lead to premature wrinkling, which conceals the shape of your jaw and makes you appear older.
Dental implants can protect your jaw by preventing this issue from forming. If you’ve suffered from bone loss, a supplemental treatment might be able to get you back on track.
5
Reduced Self-Confidence
Imagine not being able to smile around your grandson or granddaughter because they might be afraid of the fact that you’re missing all of your teeth. Tooth loss affects how you interact with people and whether or not you can smile at all.
Tooth loss can have adverse impacts on our social lives and how we feel when other people are around. It hinders your love life and your friendships, and can ultimately change how you think about yourself. We all deserve to be confident and love our lives.
6
Increased Likelihood of Pain
Missing teeth leave openings to the will of the elements. Our nerves travel from our teeth, through the sockets, to the rest of our body, and because of this, space can create higher sensitivity in the affected area — discomfort, pain, and irritation can occur.
Dental implants will help defend these exposed areas by replacing the natural tooth root and offering support for a natural-looking dental crown.
7
Anxiety & Unhappiness
One of the benefits of smiling is that we authentically feel better. We associate smiling with positivity and approachability. It’s why even a fake smile can improve your mood.
How can we be happy if we’re afraid to smile? It’s not surprising that tooth loss is associated with a higher risk of anxiety and depression, but tooth loss doesn’t need to end like this.
Dental implants are a long-term, cost-effective, and attractive solution. Start smiling again today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can jawbone loss be reversed?
Missing teeth can cause your jawbone to degrade, which can result in jaw pain or problems eating. Fortunately, dental implants can restore your jaw to its full potential. However, if your jaw isn’t dense enough, your implant dentist will likely recommend a supplemental procedure along with your implants.
Supplemental dental procedures reinforce your jawbone so you have enough density to support your implants. Our dental experts commonly perform bone grafts or sinus lifts during the implant process.
How do you prevent bone loss after tooth extractions?
To prevent bone loss after a tooth extraction, we recommend immediately seeking a high-quality tooth replacement option. We recommend dental implants — they’re the most dependable, long-lasting tooth replacement option.
For added convenience, our titanium implants fuse with your jawbone. This strengthens your jaw and allows them to act like your natural tooth root. Dental implants are also sturdy and help maintain bone around the area, so your smile can stay vibrant for years to come.
What kind of problems can occur from tooth loss?
If tooth loss is left untreated, it can bring a variety of dental problems such as:
- Misaligned teeth
- Headaches
- Bite problems
- Joint pain
- Crooked teeth
A misaligned smile makes it harder to properly brush and floss your teeth in between. This can lead to tooth decay and further tooth loss. If you’re suffering from tooth loss and want to restore your smile, contact our office to schedule an appointment with our implant dentist.
What are the most common causes of tooth loss?
Tooth loss can occur for several reasons:
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Physical injury or trauma
- Diabetes
- Hypertension