The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth

Major Causes of Tooth Loss

Premature tooth loss can occur at any age for a variety of reasons, including: 

• Extensive decay or infection: Though dental fillings and root canal therapy can treat decay and infection, extraction may be necessary if your condition has progressed too far. 
• Gum disease: Advanced periodontal disease affects the size of your gum pockets and can extend to the bone tissue, resulting in loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.
• Trauma: A sports injury or accident can lead to a knocked out tooth. Although teeth can usually be reimplanted if brought to the dentist as quickly as possible, this is not always the case. 

If you have one or many missing teeth, you are not alone. The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that at least 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. 

Consequences of
Missing Teeth 

Tooth loss is not just traumatic. When left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral and overall health issues.

Bone Loss

Your jawbone builds up strength due to the constant forces that are applied to it when you eat or drink. When your tooth falls out, though, your jawbone no longer has this source of stimulation. Consequently, jawbone atrophy is common among patients with tooth loss. Changes in your jawbone can affect your candidacy for dental implants and give you a shrunken, older appearance. 

Speech Difficulties 

Tooth loss can make enunciation of certain words difficult. This can affect your confidence, interest in socializing, and work performance. 

Misalignment 

When you lose a tooth, your other teeth will begin to shift in an attempt to fill in the remaining gap. This change can affect the way your teeth fit together. In addition to compromising your chewing ability, misalignment has been linked to other concerns such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. 

Our practice offers virtually unlimited restorative services including dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures especially designed to suit your unique features and number of missing teeth. 

Malnutrition 

Extensive tooth loss can severely inhibit your ability to eat solid, nutritious foods. Without the ability to enjoy apples, carrots, and other important foods, your overall health can suffer. 

Changes in Your Features 

Missing teeth can make you look older than your actual age. When you lose a tooth, your cheeks and lips may look more sunken since they lack structural support from your teeth. This can lead to decreased self-confidence and additional psychological consequences. 

Discuss Your Options with a Dentist 

If you have one or many missing teeth, you have options. Astoria Dental Group offers virtually unlimited restorative services including dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures especially designed to suit your unique features and number of missing teeth. We are equipped with an in-house laboratory and other state-of-the-art technology to ensure you are satisfied with your final restoration. Our doctors can discuss your options during your consultation. Schedule an appointment today by calling us at (718) 278-1123 or contacting us online.