Will a Missing Tooth Cause Oral Issues?

A missing tooth can result from periodontitis, injury, wear, or decay. It is not a problem you should be ashamed of at all. Addressing it right away is important if it does happen to you. If you want to know if a missing tooth will cause dental problems, here are the details.

Premature aging

At least one missing tooth weakens and changes the facial structures. The jawbone loses its density. This weakens the dental support for the remaining teeth. It also thins out the bone in that area of the jaw. Bone repair and growth cannot happen because the alveolar bone in that section of the jawbone is gone.

The stimulation of the alveolar bone tells the body to send nutrients to the jawbone for cell repair and growth. The facial tissues may sag, pinch, or pucker when there are missing teeth. Losing teeth can also cause an imbalance in the facial structure. The framework of the face changes. This makes the person look older than he or she really is.

Bite problems

Having a missing tooth disturbs the alignment of the teeth. The teeth tend to shift toward the empty space. This results in bite issues. The malocclusion can result in the following problems:

• Worn teeth
• Headaches
• Tooth grinding
• Tooth sensitivity
• Temporomandibular joint disorders
• Difficulty chewing

Speech issues

Speaking is the ability to form understandable words through sounds from the mouth. This is possible because of the ability to use different components of the mouth. A major part of pronouncing words depends on one’s teeth. This misplaced component may result in the production of incomprehensible words.

The tongue needs to touch specific parts of the dental arch to form words. Air needs to pass through different sections of these contact points to help produce the sounds. That is why it is important to replace a missing tooth. The tongue cannot form proper words without anything to touch.

Higher risk of periodontitis and cavities

Tooth loss triggers the shifting of the remaining teeth into the empty space. This is the chaos a missing tooth causes. The shifting will cause problems in flossing and brushing. Improper dental care results in more bacteria thriving. Plaque builds up, and then tartar forms. This will lead to cavities and periodontitis if the individual does not have a tooth replacement procedure soon.

Low self-esteem

Even one missing tooth can lead to a low self-image. The person cannot smile, talk, or laugh without exposing the toothless space. The inability to socialize and staying alone is common in people with this type of problem. Replacing the lost tooth can help the person regain self-assurance.

Replacing a missing tooth can resolve any oral issue

Losing a tooth can cause chaos in the mouth. It can lead to dental shifting, jaw issues, and bite problems. Replacing your missing tooth is important for your dental and general health. It can maintain the balance of your oral environment. Seeing your dentist for the right tooth replacement can start your journey back to optimal dental health.

Are you considering replacing a missing tooth in the Los Angeles area? Get more information at https://www.alluredentistry.com.

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