Problems That Can Develop if You Prolong Replacing a Missing Tooth

Losing a tooth isn’t just a cosmetic problem; it’s a gateway to a host of other complications that can affect you physically and mentally.

If you’re putting off that dental appointment, we encourage you to reconsider.

At St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants in Slidell and Covington, Louisiana, Drs. Caesar Sweidan and Laura Smith have seen what missing teeth can do to people. You might be surprised to learn the far-reaching impact of even a single lost tooth.

Here’s a look at the potential problems that can develop if you delay replacing a missing tooth and why dental implants might be the best solution for you.

The domino effect of a missing tooth

Many people are missing teeth: 178 million Americans have a gap where they lost a tooth, and 40 million have no natural teeth at all. 

That’s not OK — not by a long shot.

The most common reason for tooth loss is dental decay, which means most people could do better in the hygiene department. But lost teeth aren’t idle gaps; they’re sources of ongoing and future problems, such as:

Bone loss in your jaw

When you lose a tooth, your jawbone in that area starts to deteriorate because the bone no longer receives the stimulation it needs from chewing and biting. Over time, you lose bone mass, which can affect the structure of your face, making you look older than you are.

Shifting teeth

Your teeth rely on each other for support. When one is missing, the neighboring teeth can shift into the gap. When that happens, you have misaligned teeth that lead to bite problems and uneven wear on your teeth. 

Crooked teeth are also harder to clean, upping your risk of cavities and gum disease even further.

Increased risk of gum disease

Missing teeth create a breeding ground for bacteria. The gap in your gum line becomes a trap for food particles and plaque, which can lead to gum disease. 

Believe it or not, it doesn’t stop there. Untreated gum disease can lead to more serious health issues, including heart disease.

Self-esteem issues

A missing tooth can make you embarrassed to smile or speak in public, affecting your social interactions and overall quality of life. 

Impaired speech

Teeth are essential for clear speech. A missing tooth can cause you to slur or mispronounce words, which can be frustrating and embarrassing. Dental implants provide stability and support, helping you speak clearly and confidently.

Nutritional deficiencies

When you’re missing a tooth, you might avoid certain foods that are difficult to chew, leading to a less balanced diet and nutritional deficiencies. 

Digestive issues

Chewing is the first step in the digestive process. If you’re missing a tooth, you might not chew your food properly, leading to digestive issues like indigestion and stomach pain. Dental implants restore your ability to chew thoroughly.

Chronic pain

Missing teeth can cause chronic pain in your jaw and face. If your remaining teeth shift and become misaligned, you could develop temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. 

Why dental implants are the best solution

Clearly, leaving those gaps in your teeth is bad for your mouth and overall health, so what should you do? 

We’re glad you asked.

You have options depending on how many teeth you’re missing, your oral health, and your goals. But none beat dental implants for several reasons.

Dental implants look and feel natural

Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. We custom-match them to the color and shape of your existing teeth, providing a seamless and natural appearance. Plus, they function just like real teeth, so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Dental implants last a lifetime

Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants last a lifetime with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run. Dentures and bridges, on the other hand, may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, adding to your overall dental costs.

Dental implants preserve your jawbone 

The titanium post used in implants acts like a tooth root, stimulating the bone and preventing deterioration. No other tooth replacement option does that. Plus, it helps maintain the structure of your face.

Call us at St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants or request an appointment online to find out if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. We can replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or all of your teeth, and in some cases, we can get it done in one day.