Tooth loss can occur due to underlying dental issues or trauma. Each time you lose one tooth, your overall health is affected. Ignoring this condition will increase the chances of a total loss of teeth. Some of the risks of missing teeth include the following:
Bone Loss
Your teeth and jawbone are interconnected. The jawbone securely holds your teeth in position while the teeth stimulate and nourishes the bone. If you have missing teeth, the jawbone is not stimulated and will reduce in mass and volume. After a prolonged period of missing teeth, the jawbone will deteriorate and, in severe cases, lead to bone loss.
Other Teeth Appear Crooked
When you have missing teeth, the adjacent teeth start shifting in position and drift towards the vacant space. The remaining teeth will appear crooked and also cause other dental issues. Brushing and flossing crooked teeth is hard and will predispose you to tooth decay.
Speech Problems
Your teeth are crucial when it comes to producing the correct speech sounds. The teeth coordinate with the cheeks and tongue to make the required words and sounds. When you have missing teeth, it can be challenging to pronounce some words.
Problems with Chewing Food
Missing teeth will also affect how you chew food. You will find that you are chewing on one side. You will also have a different compensatory mechanism for the missing teeth. Over time, changes in chewing can cause jaw pain and other dental issues.
Gum Disease
Tooth loss leaves you more vulnerable to gum disease. Gum disease occurs due to the empty open socket left behind by the missing teeth and now becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. The bacteria then spreads and infects your gums. Gum disease will lead to further tooth loss and bone loss. Severe gum disease will make you vulnerable to other issues, such as cardiovascular diseases. To avoid such problems, missing teeth should be replaced as soon as possible.
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Masci & Hale Restorative Dentistry | Dentist Montgomery, NY Our experienced team offers patients a reason to smile via comprehensive dental exams, general and cosmetic dentistry, and teeth whitening. Learn more here! Masci, Hale & Wilson Advanced Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry, 2134 State Route 208, Montgomery, NY 12549; (845) 769-0160; areasontosmile.com; 10/4/2024; Key Phrases: dentist Montgomery NY;