The Consequences of Missing Teeth
Tooth loss is a serious issue that’s more common than you might think. In fact, more than 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. In addition to hurting the appearance of your smile, tooth loss can lead to a variety of serious health issues.
Explore our guide to learn how tooth loss can affect you, as well as how dental implants can restore health and beauty to your smile.
1
Loss of functionality.
Tooth loss can limit what you eat and how you speak. Missing teeth affect the strength and alignment of your bite, likely preventing you from enjoying some of your favorite foods. You may also begin to slur your words, hurting your ability to speak clearly.
Dental implants are the only restoration that fuses directly with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Once your implant is completed with a porcelain crown, you can eat and speak with total confidence.
2
Increased risk of oral infection.
When you have gaps in your smile, the empty spaces between your teeth create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. This greatly increases your risk of cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss. Even worse, this bacteria can work its way into your arteries and cause cardiovascular issues including heart attacks and strokes.
By replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, you can prevent the buildup of plaque in your mouth and reduce your risk of oral infection.
3
Weakening of the jawbone.
Your jawbone relies on your teeth for the stimulation that it needs to grow. When you lose a tooth, that area of your jawbone loses its source of stimulation and begins to rapidly deteriorate. This can cause your surrounding teeth to shift and alter the alignment of your bite.
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement that stimulates healthy jawbone growth to protect your long-term health.
4
Premature wrinkling.
If you live with missing teeth for too long, the skin around your jawline will loosen and eventually start to sag. This results in hollow cheeks and premature wrinkles, making you appear much older than you really are.
Dental implants will prevent these changes from occurring and help you maintain an attractive, youthful appearance.
5
Reduced self-confidence.
Missing teeth can put a serious dent in your self-esteem. You may feel embarrassed to smile around others, which can make you appear less approachable and trustworthy. This will ultimately hurt your ability to socialize and meet new friends.
Dental implants are customized to blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth for a stunning appearance. No one will have to know that you ever lost a tooth.
6
Increased likelihood of pain.
When you lose a tooth, the nerve tissues inside are left exposed. This causes increased sensitivity in your mouth that can eventually develop into severe pain.
Dental implants act like natural tooth roots, protecting your nerve tissues and shielding you from pain.
7
Anxiety and unhappiness.
Smiling releases chemicals called endorphins in your brain that help you feel happy and relaxed. As a result, hiding your smile can cause you to feel anxious and depressed over time.
Dental implants are a permanent, natural-looking solution for missing teeth that will encourage you to show off your smile.