The Consequences of Missing Teeth
It’s crucial to seek treatment soon after losing a tooth or two. Although it may seem harmless, missing teeth may result in more serious consequences over time. The problem won’t miraculously disappear.
Don’t Put Off Tooth Replacement
If you’ve suffered tooth loss, there are various reasons why you should consider getting replacements. Once tooth loss occurs, you may be susceptible to more loss due to a higher risk of infections caused by empty sockets, a weakening jaw, and moving teeth. Although your mouth is designed as an interdependent system, tooth loss damages that system and weakens your smile. Fortunately, dental implants from our Ottawa, IL dentist can help keep your jaw health and smile radiant.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection caused by bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria that is produced as a result of gum disease eats the plaque or tartar buildup in the mouth causing many symptoms such as:
- Bleeding
- Bad breath
- Red, sore, tender gums
- Tooth loss
If not treated, gum disease will slowly damage your mouth. Ultimately, patients with severe periodontitis experience tooth loss and bone damage. Once the individual has missing teeth, the remaining teeth will begin to shift and move around causing additional dental problems.
Jawbone Depletion
Unbeknownst to many, tooth loss actually results in jawbone depletion. Empty sockets left behind by missing teeth disintegrate the jawbone all the way to the basal bone. The process of depletion is known as resorption and is not only a huge threat to your smile but the overall function of your mouth. This depletion of bone continues even when patients choose partials or full dentures, making dental implants an even more effective option.
Resorption occurs as a result of tooth loss because it leaves the tissue without much-needed stimulation. Therefore the affected region and surrounding teeth suffer the consequences.
As soon as you lose a tooth, your jaw begins to deteriorate and eventually results in a weakened, shrunk jaw. Jaw depletion not only affects the ability to get dental implants but also causes premature aging by way of a sagging appearance.
Preserve Your Smile With Dental Implants
Traditional dental bridges and dentures don’t protect your smile. On the contrary, these traditional tooth replacement options can quickly end up damaging your jaw in the long run. With dental implants, not only will you restore your mouth’s full function, you will be able to preserve your smile for many more years! Dental implants encourage jaw stimulation and strength, unlike traditional approaches that can result in serious threats to your oral health.
Dental Implants – Part of a Healthy Smile
Dental implants are the best way to sustain a healthy smile. Unlike traditional dentures that cause gum sores and weak dental bridges, dental implants help strengthen the jawbone by counteracting depletion. Not only do dental implants work against deteriorating the bone, they also prevent the spread of gum disease.
It’s important to note that maintaining proper oral and overall health is a critical part of dental implant success. Patients with implants who keep up on oral health can enjoy a healthy permanent smile that will last a lifetime.
Contact Our Ottawa Office
If you’re missing teeth and would like to get empty gaps in your smile filled, contact implant dentist Dr. John Conness of Ottawa, IL. Our dedicated dentist and staff are here to help answer any questions you may have and help walk you through the process. Call us today to set an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I replace missing teeth?
While every patient’s needs are different, dental implants are a popular and highly effective tooth loss solution. These surgical restorations bond directly to your bone, stimulating the jaw so your teeth won’t shift and your jawbone won’t degrade.
Other tooth loss restorations generally can’t match the versatility and strength of dental implants. Dental implants are the highest quality dental restoration available, and they can even last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
Can you restore a weakened jawbone structure?
It’s possible to restore your jawbone to become a better candidate for dental implants after losing a tooth. Because losing teeth degrades your jawbone, waiting too long to replace them can make it too weak to support your implants. Thankfully, supplemental procedures like bone grafting can help strengthen your jaw and allow you to receive dental implants.
What causes tooth loss?
Tooth loss is typically caused by periodontal (gum) disease, which can develop as a result of poor oral hygiene. Other causes of tooth loss include:
- Cavities
- Poor nutrition
- Certain autoimmune diseases
- Dental trauma
- Tobacco usage
Why do missing teeth need to be replaced?
Jawbones depend on the stimulation from tooth roots to remain strong and healthy. Tooth loss can lead to jawbone deterioration, in which your jawbone gradually losses bone mass. This can then lead to a sunken appearance and other oral health issues down the line.
Missing teeth can also lead to other oral health complications, including:
- A crooked smile
- Bite problems
- Joint pain
- Headaches
- Teeth misalignment
Crooked and misaligned teeth are difficult to clean, leaving your smile vulnerable to harmful bacteria. It’s crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible following tooth loss to maintain your oral health and wellness.
How does dental health affect overall health?
Good oral health is extremely important to maintaining good overall health. Missing teeth is a serious issue that can lead to serious health complications like:
- Heart problems
- Strokes
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Preterm labor
Dr. Conness can assess your situation and work to find the solution that works for you. Schedule an appointment at our Ottawa office today to begin your journey to a healthier smile.