Why is it important to replace missing teeth?

Missing teeth is a problem that many adults face, often due to trauma or poor oral hygiene. While it may seem like a minor issue, having missing teeth can cause serious consequences if not addressed.

Replacing missing teeth is important for preserving the health and appearance of your smile, as well as keeping adjacent teeth healthy. Without tooth replacement, an alteration in your bite can occur which can cause difficulties when eating or speaking. Additionally, you may experience embarrassing and confidence-shattering aesthetic changes due to incomplete smiles. Replacing missing teeth also helps to preserve the health of the jawbone by providing stimulation that would otherwise be absent.

When you don't replace a missing tooth, several problems can arise. Firstly, adjacent teeth are more susceptible to decay and periodontal disease since there’s nothing to keep them in line. Secondly, shifting and rotation of neighboring teeth can lead to overcrowding or misalignment which makes cleaning difficult and increases plaque buildup. Finally, bone loss in the area of the missing tooth can be expected without regular stimulation from an artificial replacement. This bone loss leads to further deterioration of both facial structure and support for adjacent teeth.

Replacing a missing tooth is key in preventing further problems down the road. Implants are one popular method for replacing them as they are reliable and long-lasting with good success rates; however, bridges and dentures are also options for those who cannot opt for implants due to medical reasons or budget restrictions. It's important to discuss your concerns with a dentist so they can assess what treatment is most suitable for you based on age and budget considerations among other things

Overall, it’s essential that missing teeth are replaced as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage to both neighbouring teeth as well as facial integrity over time; this will also help maintain proper functionality when eating and speaking, enhancing not only the quality of life but self-confidence levels too! Be sure to take action sooner rather than later if you have any missing permanent teeth so that you’re able to maintain good oral health going forward!

There are various ways to replace missing teeth, depending on your budget and medical history. Some of the most popular methods include:

·      Dental Implants - are one of the more reliable and long-term options as they replicate the look and feel of a natural tooth; however they may not be suitable for some due to medical considerations or financial restrictions

·      Bridges - involves placement of crowns that support and hold a false tooth in place between adjacent teeth

·      Partial dentures - this involves creating a custom removable appliance that fits into the space where the missing tooth used to be

·      Full dentures - an affordable solution for those with multiple missing teeth, though these require regular maintenance in order to keep them clean.

It is important to discuss your concerns with your dentist so they can assess what treatment is most suitable for you based on age, lifestyle, and budget considerations among other things. Our dental team at Monterey Dental will evaluate your tooth/teeth and discuss the best option for you. We believe that the patient should be apart of the process in decision making.