Consequences of a Missing Tooth and Replacement Options

The consequences of a missing tooth go beyond aesthetics. Losing a tooth often leads to additional oral health problems like decay, infection, jawbone deterioration and further tooth loss. In addition, the remaining teeth may shift, become unstable and fall out or compromise your bite, which also causes other problems.

When you lose a tooth, you must visit a dentist as soon as possible. At Sacramento Emergency Dentist, we have replacement options: dentures, dental implants and bridges.

What Are the Risks of Disregarding a Missing Tooth?

Your imperfect smile is the least of your worries. The following complications will likely occur the longer you leave a missing tooth untreated.

Bone Loss
Chewing food stimulates bone density in the jaw, similar to how exercise helps maintain muscle tone. However, a lost tooth can induce jaw bone loss because there is no tooth to stimulate the bone. Over time, the jawbone around the gap will deteriorate, potentially weakening the adjacent teeth. Having a solid jawbone is an essential element of good oral health.

Gum Disease that Leads to Non-Oral-Related Health Complications
Delay in replacing a missing tooth increases the risk of developing gum disease, which has been linked to significant health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Gum disease results from bacteria invading the empty socket where your tooth used to be. It is a severe oral health problem that makes the teeth you still have loose and fall out, leading to bone loss in the jaw. The bacteria can also enter your bloodstream, causing your missing tooth to become a life-threatening ordeal.

Jaw Disorders and Bruxism
As your teeth change positions, the way they align changes, too, which throws off your bite. An improper bite can lead to bruxism, the habitual grinding of teeth and jaw disorders like temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Teeth enamel wear, migraines and sensitivity to hot and cold are only some of the negative impacts associated with these conditions.

Seeing a Dentist for a Tooth Replacement

Schedule an appointment with Sacramento Emergency Dentist if you need to replace one or more missing teeth. We have various tooth replacement options and can help you determine the most suitable for your needs and budget.