Why Missing Teeth Are More than Just a Cosmetic Issue
March 12, 2018
Losing one or more teeth is embarrassing, especially if they’re located near the front of the mouth where they can be easily seen. While it’s important to replace missing teeth for the benefit of your physical appearance, it’s also important to understand that losing a tooth is much more than just a cosmetic issue. Here are a few reasons why it’s important to have your dentist replace your missing teeth with dental implants as quickly as possible.
Missing Teeth and Health Implications
When you lose a tooth, you also lose bone mass directly beneath it. Every tooth is attached to the jaw bone with a root. The root is what stimulates growth in the bone and prevents it from degrading. Once the root is gone, the bone in the area no longer receives consistent stimulation. As a result, it starts to grow weaker and lose its mass.
In addition to bone loss, you could also deal with potential nutritional issues if you’re missing multiple teeth. When teeth are missing, dental function declines and it becomes harder to chew food. As a result, you may need to restrict your dietary choices to avoid oral pain.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants can prevent common issues associated with missing teeth because they stimulate bone growth and give you the ability to eat the foods you love again. Each implant has a post that is inserted into the jaw bone. The post is made from strong titanium and takes the place of your natural tooth’s root. As the post stimulates the bone of the jaw, it encourages healthy growth and prevents the natural degradation that occurs after tooth loss.
Call Our Practice
Ready to improve your smile and oral health? Dr. Ghina Morad is a respected dentist who is highly skilled in placing dental implants. To schedule your appointment today, contact our cutting-edge practice in San Carlos, CA.