Ignoring missing teeth can cause your other teeth to shift. It can also lead to a reduction in bone mass and jaw pain.
Here's more on why you shouldn't ignore missing teeth.
Teeth Can Shift
A missing tooth causes a gap between two teeth. The teeth next to your missing tooth will then lean, causing your teeth to shift.
Even though your other teeth were straight, your other teeth will soon become crooked to fill in the space. Some teeth move immediately. Others take time to move.
Misaligned teeth can make it more challenging to maintain good oral health. You might find yourself with more cavities.
Shifting teeth can also increase your risk for gum disease, affecting nearly half of all adults. The Canadian government says seven out of 10 Canadians will develop gum disease over their lifetime.
Bone Mass Reduction
Bone loss is common with missing teeth. Until you replace a missing tooth, bone loss will continue over time.
The teeth in your mouth help support a healthy bone structure. When you lose a tooth, the bone does not get the stimulation it needs to keep your jaw healthy.
As bone loss continues, you could increase your risk for a jaw fracture. Your face could also look "sunken in," especially if multiple teeth are missing from your mouth.
Jaw Pain
Missing teeth affect your bite and could lead to jaw pain. If you have one missing tooth, you'll favor one side of your mouth over the other.
In some cases, jaw pain can lead to headaches thanks to constantly chewing harder in one portion of your mouth.
Temporo mandibular joint - or TMJ - can also contribute to headaches. You also might have tender cheeks or ear pain thanks to missing teeth.
Solutions for Missing Teeth
One of the solutions is having dental implants. A dentist will put dental implants into your jawbone and attach a porcelain tooth that looks just like a natural tooth.
Dental implants last longer than dental bridges. They are a long-term solution to missing teeth and overall better oral health.
It's best to check what oral health plans will pay for when it comes to treatments for missing teeth.
Don't Ignore Missing Teeth
Ignoring missing teeth means your teeth will shift, and you will see a reduction in bone mass. You may start feeling jaw pain. Let us help you get your oral health back on track. Northland Village Dental Centre offers reliable dental services such as bridges, dental implants, and partial dentures. Our dentists will give you an oral health exam and determine what's best for you.