Losing a baby tooth is a rite of passage for youngsters, an occurrence that the Tooth Fairy may reward with money (sometimes up to $3.70) nestled under a pillow. On the other hand, adult tooth loss may be a significant — not to mention bothersome — oral health condition.

Adult tooth loss is commonly caused by decay and trauma. Although restorative treatments such as dental bridges, dentures and partials, and dental implants can successfully repair gaps left by one or more missing teeth, many Americans choose to postpone treatment and accept the loss. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, around 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and approximately 40 million Americans have lost all of their teeth.

What Happens If Missing Teeth Aren't Replaced?

Most dentists believe that failing to replace missing teeth can harm a patient's smile's functioning and health. As a result, if you have lost one or more teeth and refuse treatment, you may develop further and more expensive dental disorders that may interfere with everyday activities.

To help you understand the repercussions, here are the effects of missing teeth:

1. Bone Loss

The loss of a tooth signals the body to begin the process of bone resorption, or the reabsorption of the bone into the mouth. As a result, there is a weakening of the jawbone and the potential for an early onset of gum disease and tooth decay.

2. Altered Bite

Without teeth to fill the arch, the opposing jaw will move forward to fill the void. This not only affects the appearance of the smile, but it can also affect the jaw joint and cause discomfort and pain.

3. Excessive Jaw Muscle Use

When a tooth is missing, the muscles on the opposite side of the jaw will tend to pull the jaw forward. This action causes unnecessary muscle use and more significant strain on the ligaments and muscles of the face and neck.

4. TMJ Disorder

Many patients with missing teeth report jaw discomfort or TMJ syndrome, which usually involves lockjaw-like symptoms. This condition is more prevalent among senior adults and those who have lost all teeth.

5. Speech Problems

Losing a tooth can affect the position and shape of the remaining teeth in the mouth. This results in misaligned teeth that can be more difficult to clean and lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease.

What are the Available Treatments For Missing Teeth?

There are several restorative treatments available for patients who have missing teeth. Your treatment options include:

1. Dental Implants: Dental implants are designed to replace the tooth root, which serves as the foundation for an implant-supported crown that perfectly mimics the look and feel of a natural tooth. Dental implants are a common treatment choice for patients searching for a permanent replacement for a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth.

2. Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are a common choice for replacing a single missing tooth. The bridges are made by placing a piece of dental lab-fabricated porcelain onto the abutment teeth left in place. The dental bridge is then connected to the abutment teeth with dental crowns, restoring the smile's natural appearance.

3. Dentures: Dentures, or removable replacement teeth, are a treatment option for patients who have lost all of their teeth. Although somewhat less stable than dental implants, dentures are removable and allow patients to eat and speak normally.

Conclusion

The choice to replace missing teeth should not be taken lightly. Missing teeth not only leaves a hole in your smile but can also cause other health issues that can affect your quality of life daily.

Your dental health is vital. And because of this, it's only worth going to the best cosmetic dentist in Denver that many trusts. Here at G-Dental32, we offer exceptional dental services from general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry, dental implants to oral surgery, down to sedation dentistry. So, if you need assistance with your dental health, reach out to us today!